Rachel Salmon
WVoN co-editor 

A football think-tank in England has launched a major online survey to find out what women think about the game, and ascertain their standing within it.

Football Insights, a newly-formed company which researches fans’ views, is inviting women to fill in an online questionnaire, seeking their opinions on everything from facilities for female supporters, sexism, coaching, television coverage and participation in the women’s game.

Founder Paul Goodwin, said: “Up until now no-one has undertaken broad reaching research into females’ attitudes and involvement in the game from grassroots to the elite levels.

“A comprehensive survey will provide valuable insight for everyone with an interest in the future of the game including the game’s authorities, clubs and sponsors.”

Last year a survey by Sport England called Active People found that 275,000 adult women played football, making the women’s game the third largest participation sport, behind men’s  football and men’s cricket.

Football Insight’s account director Scott Grant said there was no doubt the women’s game had grown, with magazines like She Kicks raising its profile.

“The new Women’s Super League was launched last year, it’s an important step to the women’s game becoming more professionalised.

“I watched the youth Football Scotland, under 17s Girls Cup Final and was really surprised by the competitiveness of these young girls,” he said.

He said the survey had so far received support from 11 league clubs, including Portsmouth and Derby County, but admitted it had sometimes proved difficult to get others interested. 

“A lot more are waiting to see what happens,” he said.