Women's and girls' football continues to see transformative growth in a historic year

The first year of Reaching Higher has coincided with an unforgettable year for women’s and girls’ football. From England becoming back-to-back European champions to record levels of grassroots participation, there has been success across all levels of the game.  

One of the four strategic priorities laid out in Reaching Higher was to win a major tournament. The Lionesses achieved that this summer in Switzerland as they were crowned European champions for a second time, becoming the first England senior team to ever win a major tournament overseas. The impact of their victory was immediately felt at home, with a 196% increase in searches for female football playing opportunities the day after the EURO final. Five months on, participation levels have increased by 5% compared to pre-tournament levels, while there has also been increases in the number of female coaches and referees, which have grown by 12% and 29% respectively, compared to the same time last year.   

A key target that forms part of the strategic ambition to provide equal opportunities for women and girls to play football has been achieved three years ahead of schedule. Originally set for 2028, the objective for 90% of schools to offer girls equal access to football through PE lessons at Key Stages 2 and 3 has already been met. 2.6 million girls now have equal access to football in PE lessons – an increase of 31% since the 2020-21 season. 

The Made for This Game campaign was also launched earlier this year to help break down the barriers that prevent women and girls from getting involved in football. Spanning every area of the game, Made for This Game shows every woman and girl, regardless of their age, ability or background, that they belong in football, whether that’s playing, coaching, refereeing or volunteering.  

Reaching Higher seeks to continue building high-quality robust competition across the women’s football pyramid. The FA Women’s National League saw another season of positive progress, with 100% of clubs achieving ‘safe to operate’ minimum standards and over 240,000 fans attending fixtures that feature WNL clubs. The first standalone broadcast deal for the Adobe Women’s FA Cup was also agreed, with matches from the First Round Proper onwards broadcast live on TV for the first time.  

Reflecting on the year, Sue Day, Director of Women’s Football & Para Football at The FA, said: “2025 will be remembered as a historic year for women’s sport. The Lionesses once again captured the nation’s hearts when they became back-to-back European Champions on that famous summer’s night in Basel. That victory has ignited something powerful, strengthening a special connection with fans and driving more women and girls than ever before to play, coach, referee and get involved in football.  

“With record levels of participation in schools and clubs, there is so much to be proud of this year – but no room for complacency. We must use this momentum to drive the game forward. It’s up to all of us to keep building on the legacy of the Lionesses, ensuring the game continues to thrive for generations to come.”