By Lauren Harte
How Birmingham County Women’s Walking Football League is changing the game
Ahead of the Community Shield kick-off, the FA spotlighted those driving real change at grassroots level through its annual Grassroots Football Awards. Among this year’s standout winners was the Birmingham County Women’s Walking Football League.
Crowned League of the Year, this trailblazing organisation has sparked a movement to bring more women into football.
Starting less than two years ago with just seven teams, the league has rapidly expanded into a thriving community of around 240 women.
This September, 18 teams will compete across three divisions.
At the heart of this growth is Jay Adams, Subcommittee Lead and a driving force behind the league’s success.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Jay said:“It feels absolutely incredible to be recognised by the FA. Just to be here today and have this experience is amazing. I do it because I want to do it, but to be recognised like this is just incredible.”
Launched in November 2023, the league offers a fresh approach to football for women aged 35 to 70, many of whom have faced barriers and a lack of opportunities to play.
“Our league creates an inclusive environment for women to play the sport they love,” Jay said.
“The impact goes beyond sport — it ensures every woman feels supported and creates a real sisterhood bond between all the players, no matter what team they play for.”
Originally just one division, the league now groups teams by ability. From next season, plans are underway to introduce age-based divisions to better serve its diverse and growing community.
Jay said: “We’re attracting teams from across the country because they like how we run the league. We stay flexible, listen, and try to please as many people as we can.”
The league received their award from former Lioness Sue Smith and were celebrated on the pitch during half-time, earning recognition in front of thousands of fans at the Community Shield.
Director of Football Development at the FA, James Kendall, said: “Volunteers are the heartbeat of grassroots football.
“The winners are a credit to our society, and their devotion to supporting people and building communities through football deserves recognition.”
Looking ahead, Jay is focused on the league’s continued growth, always keeping community at its core.
Jay said: “It’s getting harder as we get bigger, but we’re all up for it.”
The Birmingham County Women’s Walking Football League isn’t just growing, it’s redefining what football can mean for women across the country.
