Hi everyone,
This weekend’s fixture coincides with International Women’s Day, providing an opportunity to celebrate the incredible women who contribute tirelessly to Barnsley FC.
We are fortunate to have Jean Cryne and Julie Anne Quay on our board of directors, but beyond that, we have talented and dedicated women across various roles within the club.
From Sarah, Mollie, and Sue in the medical team, to Ann and Abbie in football administration, and Kelly leading our safeguarding efforts, as well as Karen in accounts – each of these individuals sets high standards and works relentlessly to drive our club forward.
We simply could not function without them, and I want to extend my sincere gratitude for their hard work and commitment every single day.
While football has made significant strides in gender equality and the women’s game continues to grow, there remains much to be done.
Research from Kick It Out has revealed that 52 per cent of women have experienced sexist behaviour in a football setting, and worryingly, 85 per cent of those who experienced or witnessed sexism did not report it, fearing they would not be taken seriously.
As we approach International Women’s Day tomorrow, we stand together in raising awareness and reaffirm our commitment to making football a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Last weekend, we were honoured to welcome EFL chief executive Trevor Birch to Oakwell, where he presented us with an award recognising our 5,000th league game.
This prestigious milestone is a testament to the club’s rich history and serves as a powerful reminder of our duty to continue pushing Barnsley FC forward.
The award is now proudly displayed in our West Stand trophy cabinet, where it will remain a symbol of our legacy and ambition.
On the pitch, our impressive winning streak came to an end at Charlton, but we had previously secured maximum points from three crucial games.
We remain firmly in the fight for a play-off position, and despite the inevitable injuries and challenges that arise, I have complete confidence in Darrell Clarke, his staff, and the team as they continue to battle for success.
Your unwavering support does not go unnoticed. Over 300 of you made the long journey to South London on Tuesday night – a true reflection of the passion and dedication that defines our fanbase.
As we enter this crucial phase of the season, let’s continue to stand together and push towards our goals.
Enjoy the match!
