We spoke with Solidarity Soccer attendee, Helen McKenna, about her experiences attending the weekly innovative, informal women’s football training engaging women (16+) of any experience and ability in non-competitive football.
Solidarity Soccer is a great introduction to our alternative ethos, playing style and approach as a club and runs at the U-Mix Centre, Wednesdays, 7-8pm. Get in touch to get involved!
AFC Unity: In a few words, how would you describe Solidarity Soccer to someone who hasn’t been?
Helen: Football skills and games with a really friendly group where you’re made to feel welcome regardless of experience or current ability and everyone’s efforts are valued. Also, it’s fun!
AFC Unity: Do you have any stories that stand out from your time of being involved in Solidarity Soccer?
Helen: One week a coach on another pitch was constantly berating his team. It made me really angry and brought home to me how precious it was to have found a group where you’re respected and where it’s OK to make the mistakes that you need to make in order to improve.
AFC Unity: Has Solidarity Soccer had an impact on your outside football life?
Helen: It’s had a very positive impact and has led to less of my life being outside football! After years of panic attacks and depression my exercise had become very limited and I’d lost interest in things I used to enjoy. These sessions provided a safe space to get back into playing and reminded me how much I’ve always loved football. Finding that spark again has become a major part of my recovery and I’m now a volunteer football coach with Brunsmeer Awareness FC, a mental health friendly football team.
AFC Unity: Has Solidarity Soccer helped you with 11-a-side football at all?
Helen: It’s reminded me how much I miss playing it!
AFC Unity: If you could pick one word to describe Solidarity Soccer what would it be?
Helen: Inclusive.
AFC Unity: What has been your favourite skill to learn and why?
Helen: Cruyff turn, because I now know I’ve been doing it wrong for 30 years!
AFC Unity: Anything else to add?
Helen: Thank you! Solidarity Soccer has been genuinely life-changing.
The result from today’s match was not what AFC Unity would have hoped for, as they were defeated 0-11 by Sheffield Wednesday Development.
Unity started well and pressured Wednesday keeping them at arm’s length for the first 10 minutes of the first half. However, goal number one came in the 12th minute from Sheffield Wednesday’s number 7. Unity continued to keep pushing on and try to create chances, but Wednesday weren’t allowing them to get through their defence. In the 14th minute, number 15 for Wednesday was taken off and they only had 10 players for the remainder of the game. Wednesday then continued to push forward and converted 4 more goals before half-time making it 0-5.
After half-time Wednesday continued to attack at Unity’s defence and rack up the score tally making the score-line 0-8 by the 60th minute. Shortly after their 8th goal, number 13 for Wednesday was taken off due to another injury resulting in them only having 9 players on the pitch. There were some brilliant saves from Unity’s keeper, Hannah Lamb, as she tipped over a close range shot from number 7 in the 68th minute and then again in the 72nd minute, keeping the score from worsening. Although Unity didn’t give up and carried on pushing on for the final dying minutes of the second half, Wednesday score 3 more goals in quick succession resulting in the final score AFC Unity 0-11 Sheffield Wednesday Development.
Talking to Unity’s captain, Rachel Rodgers, after the game she said. “We won a lot of personal battles in defence, but they were just the better team and they took their chances when they had them.” Unity’s number 3, Jane Watkinson, spoke about how she felt that, “We had good spells of good passing, but we just need to be more consistent.” Unity’s Manager, Jay Baker, talked about how he was pleased that “we kept on going throughout the game, there were a lot of individual errors from each player, but on a whole we played well as a team.”
We spoke with Solidarity Soccer attendee, Sarah Peck, about her experiences attending the weekly innovative, informal women’s football training engaging women (16+) of any experience and ability in non-competitive football.
Solidarity Soccer is a great introduction to our alternative ethos, playing style and approach as a club and runs at the U-Mix Centre, Wednesdays, 7-8pm. Get in touch to get involved!
AFC Unity: In a few words, how would you describe Solidarity Soccer to someone who hasn’t been?
Sarah: Fun football training in a friendly and welcoming environment.
AFC Unity: Do you have any stories that stand out from your time of being involved in Solidarity Soccer?
Sarah: I came to Solidarity Soccer for the first time about 4 months after my daughter was born – it was the perfect environment to start getting back into sport again, especially the emphasis on technique and skills, rather than solely focussing on the physical side of the game.
AFC Unity: Has Solidarity Soccer had an impact on you outside football life?
Sarah: I think becoming involved in Solidarity Soccer has made me realise that you can play sport (especially football) and preserve the values that are important to you at the same time. It often feels that sport brings out the selfish, aggressive and judgemental side in all of us, but the way Solidarity Soccer sessions are conducted emphasises learning, inclusivity and fair play.
AFC Unity: Has Solidarity Soccer helped you with 11-a-side football at all?
Sarah: I’m not currently playing 11-aside but it has encouraged me to think about doing so in the future!
AFC Unity: If you could pick one word to describe Solidarity Soccer what would it be?
Sarah: Welcoming
AFC Unity: What has been your favourite skill to learn and why?
Sarah: Probably the double – drag back – it’s very slick and you can always make it more challenging by using your weaker foot or trying it at speed.
AFC Unity: Anything else to add?
Sarah: It’s been great to find AFC Unity and the Solidarity Soccer sessions and to find such a positive sports club, both socially and in the approach they take to playing football. The focus on skills development is fantastic as is the emphasis on fair play and inclusivity. It’s also great to be involved with a sports club that is so tightly knit to socially progressive causes, proving that sport can be a vehicle for caring about society more widely.
This will be a true test of character for even the best of players: We now have the toughest stretch of our whole season underway, a six-week period of cup and shield games alongside league matches against top teams, while our squad is still finalising the process of starting to gel after having had just one pre-season friendly.
Despite this, we still started the season playing our best football yet against every league opponent but one; those games we only took one or less points from were games where we knew we played the better football, and had to stick to a longer-term plan.
Having said that, we can be better, and will be better, and we know we must be better to overcome the odds we’re up against in a league full of boom-and-bust teams who throw everything they have at every game for short-term results, build a squad or system around one player, or win at all costs. It’s an epic challenge for us, and that’s why we have to work even harder than these other teams in order to succeed.
We want to do well on the field so we can do more off the field, as well. Our profile has skyrocketed in just under five years; we’ve been in local, regional, and national press, been covered in books and talks, and achieved a heck of a lot in the community. But we still need more support. I realise people want to support a team that wins every week, but with us, regardless of the result, there’s an opportunity for purists to watch truly beautiful football when we’re on our game, and we can’t truly succeed if that support isn’t in place on the side of the field as well.
As a not-for-profit limited company as well as a socially progressive, independent women’s football club, it’s harder to get that support, but it’s also more important for us too. That’s the irony. So a massive thanks to everyone who has attended games so far this season – it means a lot!
The players deserve such support. They work so hard and they’re involved in the football club more than they have ever been; they organise socials, fundraising, and all kinds of events; they take on coaching roles at Solidarity Soccer, where there’s a wonderful link formed between first team players and other participants at those sessions (some Solidarity Soccer players have been amongst those attending games to root for the first team players, their Ambassadors at those sessions!)
Those who have attended a few games will have noticed how the captaincy changes almost every time. It’s another unique Unity approach to empower players throughout the squad.
But more than just lead, players have to want to learn and understand the whole football philosophy. Not yet everyone truly grasps the inseparable link between our ethos and the Barcajax approach – that is sacrosanct, in my view. When we fail badly, it’s because we have deviated from those principles, it’s no more complicated than that. So players must have a full comprehension of that.
It’s a learning process. It’s a long-term project buoyed by the immense talent emerging at Solidarity Soccer from players learning the fundamental elements of the Barcajax style from scratch, players who are starting to bang on the door of the first team, a door I’m eager to kick open for them if the opportunity arises!
However, the first team roster is now officially full, since I signed our twenty-fifth and final player last week – like the other incoming players this campaign, another addition who fits our culture and playing style perfectly, and again having attended Solidarity Soccer first.
And this is important: players wanting to play for the first team really must attend Solidarity Soccer beforehand, because it doesn’t matter how good you think you are, our playing style is very different to other teams, as is the ethos it’s designed to fit. It’s also a real test of character for players: by them biding their time in Solidarity Soccer, working hard, going over concepts again and again, absorbing information like a sponge, they demonstrate the commitment to our club while also tooling up on the skills and knowledge of our approach to football. If someone wants to just play any old football for any old club, they have lots of options out there for that!
Solidarity Soccer is also a great way for me to scout players and see if a rapport can be built!
during The FA Community Shield match between Leicester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on August 7, 2016 in London, England.
I’ve never missed a match in our history, nearly a hundred of them in just under five years – I’ve been there for the record 1-13 win and the record 17-1 loss; I’ve accompanied a player to the hospital in the back of an ambulance; I’ve taken on clubs and committees over a nine-month painstaking process because I challenged bullying against my players; I’ve been to Wembley to accept the national Respect Award for women’s clubs in the country in a rare recognition of our club and its integrity in practice.
But, at the end of the day, it’s voluntary, it’s tiring, and traditional clubs with men’s teams and several other tiers to their system have more support networks for head coaches and managers, and it can be tough at times, I’m not too proud to admit – more so when you’re trying to do something so very different. The women in this club are important. I’m a feminist and I believe in what I do, and what this club is about. That’s why I’m committed to this season.
Yes, we’re trying to do something different. We’re determined to play a certain kind of football that, despite borrowing from developed concepts from the past, is years ahead of its time in many ways. It’s why every game is a struggle – when we win, there’s no doubt we deserved it, and there’s no doubt it took a collective effort from everyone, not just one key player. We’re trying to reflect our ethos of collectivism on the field as well.
We believe in a way where everyone is unique yet has their part to play in equal amounts. A way where everyone must stay positive to help the team get ahead. A way where we stick together. A way where we root for each other.
We are excited to announce we are now offering a match day sponsorship package for our remaining home games.
A match day sponsor can be a business, charity or individual who sponsors one or more of our home games.
Being a match day sponsor would involve providing AFC Unity with a digital logo to promote your brand on any correspondence relating to the match (such as emails, Twitter posts, Facebook posts, Instagram posts, webpage advertisement).
AFC Unity are an award winning football club. The club has achieved The FA Charter Standard Adult Club status and has been awarded the 2015/2016 FA Club Respect Award, took Bronze in Sports England’s Satellite Club of the Year Awards, were runners-up in the Most Innovative Organisation category at the VAS Make a Difference Awards and were also recipients of the Sports Personality Award at the South Yorkshire LGBT+ Awards.
We spoke with long-term Solidarity Soccer attendee, Laura Strafford, about her experiences attending the weekly innovative, informal women’s football training engaging women (16+) of any experience and ability in non-competitive football.
Solidarity Soccer is a great introduction to our alternative ethos, playing style and approach as a club and runs at the U-Mix Centre, Wednesdays, 7-8pm. Get in touch to get involved!
Laura tackling local MP Louise Haigh!
AFC Unity: In a few words, how would you describe Solidarity Soccer to someone who hasn’t been?
Laura: Solidarity Soccer is a really fun way to learn/improve skills and meet some great people in a non-competitive atmosphere. There is no pressure or judgement, just an emphasis on positivity and inclusivity. It’s such a friendly environment and everyone is treated equally, regardless of experience or ability.
AFC Unity: Do you have any stories that stand out from your time of being involved in Solidarity Soccer?
Laura: I didn’t intentionally join Solidarity Soccer! I was just at the sports centre after a swim when another participant came over for a chat whilst she was waiting for the session to begin. She described the sessions to me and told me how fun it was and encouraged me to give it a go. Over a year later I still attend regularly (thanks Sarah!) This is a good example of the attitude of the group – it’s super friendly, engaging and supportive.
AFC Unity: Has Solidarity Soccer had an impact on your outside football life?
Laura: Through it I have met some great people which has led me to start playing 5-a side and also begin to attend another socially-inclusive women’s football group. I realise this doesn’t really count as outside football life though….! Generally the sessions have improved my fitness, communication and confidence too.
AFC Unity: Has Solidarity Soccer helped you with 11-a-side football at all?
I’m currently not looking to play 11-a-side, although if I were to change my mind, the skills I have learnt from Solidarity Soccer would certainly help – the sessions cover several core themes and skills central to the game and as such I feel as though I have a much better understanding of it. The sessions also really help to build confidence in playing.
AFC Unity: If you could pick one word to describe Solidarity Soccer what would it be?
Awesome!
AFC Unity: What has been your favourite skill to learn and why?
All the skills are fun to learn although some are definitely more tricky than others! Maybe the Cruyff turn, as it’s simple yet effective!
As part of our Football For Food campaign, we have formed an official partnership with Sheffield’s S2 Foodbank, with players, supporters, management and even opponents encouraged to bring food donations to Unity’s home games so we can distribute this to local food banks.
AFC Unity’s Football for Food campaign was launched in 2015, with the club so far collecting 908kg of food that has been distributed to local food banks.
AFC Unity Director, Jaimee Reeve, explains “the Football for Food campaign is an excellent way for AFC Unity to support the local community. S2 Foodbank are just around the corner from our training and match day facilities and I have seen the positive support they offer to those needing food parcels. A nation wide community of football supporters collecting for foodbanks exists and it is fantastic to be part of this at a grassroots level.”
S2 Foodbank coordinator, Sue Rose, commenting on the partnership, said “I am delighted that AFC Unity football team have chosen us for their great campaign to fight food poverty; this will provide emergency food for those who are often in crisis. The S2 Foodbank operates as a spring board to enable people to get back on their own feet.”
We play our home games at Sheffield Park Academy with our first home game of the season taking place on the 23rd of September, with a 2pm kick off, where our first Football for Food collection for the S2 Foodbank will take place. There will also be coffee available at the game from the Bean Rover.
A guest post by Director and Welfare Officer, Jaimee Reeve
AFC Unity acknowledge the link between personal wellbeing and football. What we do off the pitch can have an impact on what happens on the pitch and vice versa. Today I will be sharing four tips for personal wellbeing and considering how we focus on these as a club.
Exercise
The health benefits of regular exercise are vast. There is evidence that exercise improves mood, increases energy levels, improves sleep, supports risk reduction for various illnesses (e.g. diabetes, hypertension), and can reduce stress. And, what better way to incorporate regular exercise than football? AFC Unity players have the opportunity to play football up to three times each week, and women of all ages and abilities can play football each Wednesday via our Solidarity Soccer sessions.
Eat Well
Eating a balanced diet has been shown to make us feel more emotionally and physically healthy. AFC Unity team mates have the option to eat brunch together before playing matches; a fantastic way to spend a Sunday.
Many people rely on food banks to provide food at times of need. UK food bank use has been on the incline in recent years. AFC Unity has a Football for Food campaign which supports the local community via food bank donations.
Positivity
Positivity is a key aspect of the AFC Unity football ethos. Some people are naturally optimistic and positive, but if you are not, that is ok. Positivity can be developed and worked on. Evidence has shown that noting down what you are grateful for each day can improve your mood. You could also try challenging negative thoughts. For example, if you find yourself frustrated that you missed a shot, ask yourself what you could learn from the experience and remind yourself of something you have done well. Have a go at being your own biggest supporter.
Friendship
It is important to share experiences; good and bad. Friendship has many benefits. It can increase your sense of belonging, boost happiness, reduce stress, improve self-confidence, and provide encouragement. AFC Unity focus on collectivism and inclusivity; offering a sense of belonging to anybody who wishes to become involved.
As the new season starts, AFC Unity has teamed up with 1889 books to raise funds for the club through sales of a new book on the rules of the game. You can buy the book via 1889books.co.uk quoting “AFC promo” and half of the profits will go to the club.
The book is an illustrated fan’s guide to the laws of association football. All too often fans and players rant at the ref’s decision without really knowing what they’re on about (as do top TV pundits to be fair). Don’t be that fool. With this book you can understand what is a red card offence, what constitutes hand ball, properly understand offside without having to wade through the complexities of the official FIFA or FA versions of the laws.
Author Steve Kay said: “Many of the photos were taken at an AFC Unity match. Their philosophy on the game chimes with my own, so I am pleased if this can help support them.” Steve laughed when asked about the book’s title: “I did think hard about a gender neutral title, but it was clunky and anyway most of the ranting at the ref is in the men’s game, so decided it was OK.”
Co-Founder and Secretary, Jane Watkinson, added: “We are excited and very grateful for this opportunity to link up with Steve and 1889 books and help support and promote this fantastic work via the club.”
In the last entry to this column, I said pre-season was going to be awesome. I was wrong. The season is going to be awesome.
Last season, it’s been said countless times, was all about building a solid foundation after merging two of our teams into just the one. But then afterwards, we realised there were still yet more players coming through wanting to play for us – quality players; quality people, mostly through the Solidarity Soccer programme as a conduit to re-engage these amazing players back into football, which they wanted to play for an ethos, not just in any team.
With the 16 we carried forward from last season (in itself enough to fill a squad on a Sunday), we were already quality, but those coming in have been a seamless fit for what we wanted. As I’ve said, there was always a long-term plan. For a whole year before, I suspected that the 2018/19 AFC Unity squad might be the best yet. Now I know for certain.
That’s not to say this build-up to the season has not had its challenges. Players relishing the friendly competition for places ahead wanted to make sure they took their trips away in the summer, spreading the squad a little thin for friendlies, which have not been as high in quantity as we’d have liked, though the quality has certainly been there – with no expectations, a newly-formed AFC Unity team losing 0-4 to a side who beat us 7-2 then 6-1 last season – with some revelations coming from newcomers getting lots of game time. However, that game time cost us some injuries, and I’ve been careful to look after players since. The season is the focus. We are looking forward to a good one, with solid support and a reinvigorated Football for Food campaign.
Yes, we have our detractors. Some see us apply an empowering, positive approach to playing, or opposing prejudice, or promoting collectivism in the workplace, or committing to use only fair trade footballs, or, yes, helping food banks, and they make it clear – usually through social media – that they want to see us defeated; pounded into the ground. I don’t want to speculate what that says about them as people, but you can’t beat an idea. You can play for any other team in the league, and score as many more goals than us as you like, but what then? We’re still here, we’re still doing things our way – and we’re still growing, and getting better and better.
So, as Naomi Klein rightly suggests, how about people honestly declare what they’re for? That’s a positive thing to do. Here’s what AFC Unity are for: engaging and empowering women, working together on and off the pitch, doing good in the community, playing with dignity, respect, and fairness – and being a socially progressive, independent women’s team (one of the very few in the world, in fact). That’s what we’re for, and that’s what we’re playing for. That’s what we’re about. And that’s an idea that won’t be stopped, but we’ll all keep battling to promote.
So please come along and support the Red Stars this coming season. The football we’re playing is reaching a whole other level. You’ll see the team attacking together and defending together, from front to back, and you’ll see passing football, with a commitment to playing the game the right way, win or lose.
Rest assured then, that when we do win, it’ll be the right way. It’ll be earned. No short-cuts, no “route one” football, no individual prima donnas, no cliques, no bullying, no nonsense. We like to say the way we play reflects who we are.
We’re excited for the season ahead. We’re now ready to take AFC Unity that step further. We have a new board, new sponsors, new kit, a new ground, and even a new league in many ways, and all a massive improvement on previous versions (the team itself is no exception to that, either!) Everything has fallen into place this spring and summer. I’ve never been so proud of my team or my club as a whole – so thank you to everyone who has made that happen and played a part in that. In turn, I’ll continue to work hard for AFC Unity’s success on and off the pitch.
As the new season starts, AFC Unity has teamed up with 1889 books to raise funds for the club through sales of a new book on the rules of the game. You can buy the book via 
