Purnell Sports, who play at Cam Valley sports fields in Paulton have, for a number of years, been at the heart of local football with teams representing every age group from small children through to adults’ football. However, over the last few years, Purnell Sports have identified an increasing demand for girls’ football and with assistance from the Somerset FA, what started with a handful of girls has now turned into something of a revolution in the local area.

Already having two established girls’ teams in the Under-15 and Under-17 age groups, Purnell continue to lead the way by establishing a third girls’ team, this time focussed at the Under 11 age group which has already attracted a core of twenty talented local girls regularly training for their new team every week.

Sarah Nickless, Football development Officer for the Somerset FA, said: “Somerset FA are delighted to have supported Purnell Sports in developing their U-11 girls’ provision, the continual increase of interest and girls involved is testament to the coaches and volunteers involved at the club who are passionate about creating opportunities for girls to play the game whilst in a safe and enjoyable environment.”

Having attracted a group of keen players, the team has also been able to secure sponsorship from a local company that has enabled the girls to progress into competitive matches.

Monahans, one of the largest independent chartered accountancy groups in the west of England, is sponsoring the newly formed Purnell Sports Youth under-11 girls’ football team by providing them with a new football strip for 2016. Simon Tombs, Partner at Monahans’ Trowbridge office, stated: “We are proud to support this community based football club, they provide a great opportunity for children in the local area to come together and enjoy sport and socialise in a safe environment.”  

Purnell girls played their first competitive fixture against Frome Town Youth on a wet and windy Saturday in February. The weather could not dampen the girls’ enthusiasm and the crowd witnessed a thrilling game of football with plenty of action and excitement from two very dedicated and skilful teams. Preparation for entry into the football league next season continues with more friendly matches planned for the remainder of this season.

The new Purnell Sports under-11 team caters for those girls currently in school years 5 and 6, trains on Wednesday evenings and welcomes new girls to come along and get involved, anyone interested can contact the manager Matt Rakes by emailing: [email protected] for more information.

Matt Rakes