Inspiring the next generation of female footballers
AFC Bournemouth, in partnership with BU, recently hosted a ‘Women in Sport’ virtual masterclass in support of International Women’s Day. The masterclass, aimed at female Junior Cherries aged 12-16, gave young football fans an insight into the potential career paths in the world of sport.
As an official shirt partner for the AFC Bournemouth girls’ teams, and the AFC Bournemouth women’s team, BU supports the club in getting more women involved with the world of football, and enabling students, staff, graduates and the local community to benefit through the partnership.
The recent masterclass put a spotlight on five women who work for the club, both on and off the pitch. This included Terri Harvey, midfielder for AFC Bournemouth women’s first team and a current BU student.
Terri shared her experiences of growing up with football and how the prospects for women in football have improved greatly over the years.
Her love of ‘the beautiful game’ continued to develop during her time as an undergraduate at BU where she took on the role of captain, and later vice-captain of the women’s team. Terri explained:
“BU have helped massively with my football development – I was training twice a week with the university team and twice a week with AFC Bournemouth. Both BU and AFC Bournemouth coaches have supported me hugely and helped to develop my skills on the pitch.”
Having completed her undergraduate degree at BU in Sport Development and Coaching Sciences, Terri is now continuing her studies at the University, doing a master’s degree, and conducting research into transgender experiences in organised sport.
In the masterclass, Steve Cuss, Manager of the women’s first team also shared his experiences of working in women’s football and the opportunities created through the club-wide partnership with BU:
“Our partnership goes across many different departments. We’re particularly proud of our girls and women’s pathway development. The University supports us in offering coaching sessions out to many female players in our community. The AFC Bournemouth girls wear their shirts proudly, with the BU logo on the front.”
Other female speakers at the masterclass include Kelly Somers, football Broadcaster at the BBC, Liz Finney, Director of Operations, Alice Jeans, Club Secretary and Victoria McIntyre, Physiotherapist, all from currently or formerly of AFC Bournemouth.
Find out more about the Junior Cherries and future masterclass events on the official AFC Bournemouth website.
