Carlisle United recognised International Women's Day and Her Game Too, with events taking place before and during Saturday's game against AFC Wimbledon.
Nine inspirational women within the club and local community were present in the Study Centre before the match to share their stories of breaking down barriers to achieve success in both their personal and working lives.
They were as follows:
- Amanda Johnston - Carlisle & District Credit Union
- Dawn Harker - Carlisle United Community Sports Trust Veterans Group
- Esther Allen - Elim Community Church
- Georgia Smethurst - Carlisle United Community Sports Trust Girls Emerging Talent Centre Player Development Lead
- Maryann Liddle – Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Spiral
- Julie Minns - Labour MP for Carlisle
- Shelley Harrison and Rebecca Kiggins - Cumbria Deaf Association
- Sarah McKnight – Carlisle United Club Secretary and Matchday Safeguarding Officer
This was a fantastic way of highlighting the key roles that women play across the community and in sport.
After the talk, they were treated to brilliant hospitality from John Watt & Son in a box on the West Side of the ground.
The Her Game Too selfie board was out and about in the Northern Competitions Fan Zone giving supporters the chance to get their photo taken and show their support for the initiative with the players also wearing Her Game Too t-shirts in the pre-match warm-up.
Callum Whelan, Cedwyn Scott, Georgie Kelly and Stephen Wearne joined the Carlisle United Her Game Too Ambassador Nataly Mason pitchside for a photo with the Her Game Too flag.
At half-time players and staff from CUFC CST's Girls ETC completed a lap of honour highlighting a project which inspires girls across the community and celebrate their talent, hard work and dedication this season.
EDI Lead for the Club and Community Sports Trust Teresa Mulholland said: "Celebrating International Women's Day is not just about the incredible contributions of women in our community, football and beyond, but also about reinforcing our commitment to breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and creating an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.
"Football is for everyone, and by championing women's voices, we make the game, club, and our community stronger.
"We listened to some inspirational stories from our IWD Guests on Saturday, and we are hoping to set up a women's leadership group that will meet regularly to discuss ways in which we can help support each other and our community".
Carlisle United Her Game Too Ambassador Nataly Mason added: "It was inspiring seeing everyone come together at the game.
"I was delighted to see everyone getting involved, from girls and boys to men and women.
"And I am sure everyone loved getting their photo taken with the Her Game Too selfie board!"
You can watch the International Women's Day video on CUTV HERE
