IT was a historic day in more ways than one when 18,555 turned up at Hampden on Tuesday to see off the Scotland Women’s National Team (SWNT), a side which has given its all to represent the nation at the Fifa Women’s World Cup in France, just a few days from now.
We should never under estimate this achievement, as the history of football for women and girls in Scotland is really in its infancy given that it was 1974 before the SFA even recognised the women’s association. The early pioneers were invited along to the game and those who played in the first game, Scotland v England, were presented with caps, along with the first national coach, Elsie Cook, an amazing woman who took all setbacks in her stride and just kept on working at progressing the women’s game.
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On the night, the team were in good company as notables such as tennis coach Judy Murray, singer Horse McDonald and Steve Clarke were there in support. Nicola Sturgeon was also in attendance and rumour has it that she laid the curse to rest, as it was the first time she had attended and the team had won. She is now their lucky mascot and will be there to support them in France.
Golf’s Heather McCrea and Lisa Aitken, as was Scotland No 1 squash player and some of the previous national squad players Ifeoma Dieke, Julie Fleeting, Leanne Ross and Gemma Fay.
The most amazing site of the night was the number of young girls who travelled from all over Scotland wearing their Scotland strip and bearing the names of Little, Ross, Cuthbert, etc. The SFA had given out free tickets for organised groups and for me this was a great investment.
Being there on the night, experiencing the atmosphere, watching the game and those wonderful goals is something they will never forget. Even the press turned out in force and the coverage has been great. Let’s hope this is the start and not just a one-off!
All that is left to say is good luck to Shelley and the players. We, Scotland, are there on the world stage and we are rightfully proud of each and everyone who has played their part.
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