Scotland women’s football leading the way on the pitch and on TV

29 Nov 2024
Sport

Participation in women’s football has increased by thousands since the Scotland side last qualified for the Euros.

With news that the numbers of women and girls participating in football has tripled since 2017, it is clear that we are reaching a turning point for the sport, says Greens spokesperson for Sport Gillian Mackay MSP.

Scotland take on Finland in a UEFA Women’s Championship qualifier tonight at Easter Road and the match is being broadcast live on BBC Scotland for fans unable to attend to watch at home. 

Mackay, the Scottish Greens spokesperson for Health, Social Care and Sport, has been at the forefront of the campaign to get all of Scotland’s national games broadcast on free-to-air TV. She believes that making football accessible will increase participation in the beautiful game and inspire future generations. 

Ms Mackay said: “I am absolutely delighted to see more women and girls getting involved in football. Women’s football in Scotland is leading the way and to hear that thousands of young people are taking up sport is wonderful. It feels like we are reaching an important turning point, and that’s down to the work of so many great women both on the pitch and behind the scenes. 

“The number of matches broadcast live will no doubt have a direct link to this rising interest in football. I’ve certainly enjoyed watching our women’s team, and I know that many others have too.

“Having Scotland Women’s matches broadcast on free-to-air TV has helped to keep the game alive and bring new people to the sport. 

“It has helped to get it into living rooms all across the country and helped us to build a sense of pride in our team while providing representation for future generations who may one day be on the pitch playing for their country too. 

“Tonight’s match against Finland is set to be a cracker, with thousands of tickets sold already. I’m wishing the team the very best of luck as they approach kick-off.”