As we are now in full swing of the 20-21 season, West Didsbury and Chorlton Juniors embark on a new adventure to grow the game, this time, specifically for young girls in the local area, as we become a Wildcats Centre.

The scheme was launched by The FA to boost the number of girls involved in football after research showed young girls were keen to play but would often feel more comfortable to get involved in an all-girl setting. Wildcats is an introduction to football and about working to the needs of the individuals within the group. Our sessions are currently attended by youngsters aged 5-8, with varying ranges of experience. We focus on building core skills, helping them gain confidence, get active and develop relationships with like-minded girls. We often play games that help us focus on our movements and fitness before introducing a football into a practice.

Wildcats is not focussed on developing competitive teams; however, we understand that some of our Wildcats will aspire to be Lionesses in the future, and as a club we are keen to help those girls reach their full potential wearing the West badge.

For any of this to be possible, the club relies on a vast network of volunteers, usually in the shape of parents, to take on the responsibility of nurturing and developing the youngsters in our area, and we hope we can encourage as many young girls and women to be a part of this as possible. If you’re interested in joining our juniors as a volunteer, please get in touch with our Junior Club Chair – Tim Manley on timjohnmanley@gmail.com

To book on a Wildcats session, please visit https://www.thefa.com/womens-girls-football/get-involved/girls/fun/wildcats and search for West Didsbury and Chorlton, or email Amie on wdcwildcats@gmail.com.