Beyond the Pitch: Opportunities for women in football

For women, football careers often end earlier than expected, typically at an age when life is just beginning for many. For girls who have known nothing but football, the question remains: what opportunities are available to explore beyond the pitch? From the outset, women in football face numerous challenges.

Those who overcome these hurdles and succeed often retire earlier than their male counterparts, making life after football even more crucial. Many of these girls come from disadvantaged backgrounds, but integrating football into the school system is creating significant opportunities for them.

Cleopatra Nketiah, owner of Ridge City, highlights the importance of preparing players for life beyond football. “Not all the girls are able to succeed as professional footballers. So, we open our doors to those who want to explore other opportunities,” she explains. “Our coaching team includes two players who graduated from the club to become coaches. We’ve also had players transition to management roles—one is now a team manager, and another handles social media. These opportunities help the girls discover what they can do beyond playing on the pitch.”

Nketiah has been instrumental in building a sustainable future for her players, establishing partnerships with Everton FC and universities abroad. “Our partnership with Everton provides opportunities for our players to be scouted and supported, both on and off the pitch,” she shares. “Additionally, we have partnerships with universities in the United States, creating further pathways for the girls.”

 

Over the years, numerous stories of female footballers in Ghana struggling to make sustainable income have emerged.

However, there is a new dynamic that has seen the new generation combine their football with different opportunities. @Akosua__Adjei explores these… pic.twitter.com/yQHODtn0Ex

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) December 31, 2024

Jennifer Cudjoe, a former Hasaacas Ladies player and Northeastern Oklahoma A&M alumna, emphasizes the importance of education as the best security for female footballers. “You can’t go into every year thinking things will remain the same. Football is unpredictable, and your mental approach can change based on circumstances. Education connects you to the mental clarity needed to navigate tough times in your career.”

Former Ridge City defender Suhaad Awudu shares how combining education with sports gave her the opportunity to study Criminal Justice at Virginia State University. “This isn’t just for Ridge City girls—it’s for everyone in sports. Education is essential because life continues after football,” she says.

Hilary Maame Adwoa Boaten, former Ghana Women’s Premier League Chairperson, stresses the need for intentionality in supporting female footballers. “We must encourage club owners to ensure every athlete attains a certain level of education. Stakeholders need to be deliberate in helping these players balance education with their football careers.”

Opportunities abound for women in football, but the challenge lies in accessing and leveraging them effectively. Those at the heart of the sport believe a deliberate approach is key to ensuring female players are equipped for life after football.

 

The post Beyond the Pitch: Opportunities for women in football first appeared on 3News.

Read Full Story