Gals FC: Bringing football to those it left behind

Many of our programmes and projects pieces have focused on introducing young girls to soccer in an inclusive way, with the idea they will hopefully adopt it as a lifelong sport – potentially playing competitively, and at a high level, as they progress.

 

But for the older generation, who perhaps didn’t have those opportunities as youngsters, more programmes are now being established to provide a friendly, supportive pathway into recreational football. 

 

One such example is Gals FC, which has groups popping up in towns and cities across England, and has the ambition to be a household name in the women’s recreational game.

 

WSC editor Hannah Duncan spoke to Gals FC’s co-founder Lorne Magill to find out more...

 

WSC: Tell us a bit about Gals FC...

LM: We started Gals FC in 2022 because we were craving something different – an activity that wasn’t centred around eating or drinking, and offered real connection. 

 

More than anything, we wanted to build more of a community for ourselves. Football became our vehicle, and from our first casual kickabout, it was clear we were on to something.

 

It’s a well-researched fact that women can often feel excluded from team sports.

 

According to [UK polling firm] YouGov, 2.4 million fewer women enjoy sport than men in the UK, 32% have felt judged or self-conscious while playing, and 42% of women aged 25–39 have never played a team sport at all.

 

Too many women grow up thinking football isn’t for them, or that team sports are intimidating. 

 

Gals FC is about changing that – not just by getting more women playing, but by creating a space where they feel welcome, confident, and part of something bigger. 

 

Better mental health, new friendships, and a stronger sense of belonging are just as important as what happens on the pitch. We’re redefining what football can be.

 

WSC: Who is it aimed at and how have you gone about reaching these people?

LM: Gals FC is aimed at women aged 25 to 35, especially those who are new to football and team sports, or haven’t played in a long time.

 

We reach them primarily through Instagram, Google, and, most powerfully, through word of mouth. Our messaging focuses on non-competitive and beginner-friendly football, which opens it up to women.

 

Some people look at our club and think: "Well that’s a bit silly" – and we say: "Well, yes, that’s the point."

 

Our community is built on authenticity, fun and approachability, all qualities that resonate with women who might otherwise feel nervous about getting involved.

 

WSC: What does the Gals FC programme involve?

LM: Our programme is designed to prioritise first-timers and beginners to football.

 

Gals FC offers a non-competitive, drop-in model that makes it easy for women to integrate football into their weekly routine without pressure. 

 

Some of our gals describe the sessions as their "weekly happiness hit". When anyone scores on either side, both teams are excited. They’ll high five someone on the other team because they scored. 

 

We all swap positions every five minutes because everyone wants to try everything: to have a go at shooting, defending and going in goal. We all take turns to go in goal, because that just feels fair.

 

Every community is led by two ‘Vibe Protectors’ – they’re not referees, coaches, or captains, but friendly leaders who keep the energy positive, the games flowing, and ensure everyone feels welcome and supported. 

 

They lead by example by turning up regularly, showing love to everyone, keeping the game moving and the mood magic.

 

Off the pitch, our gals are connected through WhatsApp communities, Instagram, our Dream Teams podcast, merchandise and our community events and socials.

 

WSC: How many women have been involved so far?

LM: So far, Gals FC has welcomed 255 members, across our London, Brighton, Ipswich, York and Leeds communities – and more will be popping up across the country this year.

WSC: What benefits has this given them and what has the feedback been?

LM: The impact has been overwhelmingly positive – 91% of our members say Gals FC has improved their mental health, and 99% feel happier after a session.

 

Additionally, two-thirds feel more confident in who they are, and over half say they feel more supported in their lives since joining. 

 

One member, Jade, from our East London community, said to me: “It has changed my life completely. I never thought I would enjoy exercise and now I’m doing loads. I found it really hard to make friends and now I feel like I keep making more. It has helped with my confidence and my football skills”.

 

WSC: Why is it so important to have this dedicated programme available within your community?

LM: Well, 70% of our members say they wouldn’t be playing football without Gals FC. That stat alone shows why a space like this is vital. 

 

Without beginner-friendly, welcoming environments, too many women miss out on the physical, mental and social benefits of playing sport.

 

WSC: What are the future plans for the programme?

LM: Our goal is to eventually become a household name for women’s recreational football. 

 

This year, we’re opening 50 games across the UK and inviting more women to get involved by signing up to play or stepping up as a Vibe Protector. 

 

You can join us by visiting our website: www.galsfc.com/play-with-us.

 

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