Rutland Sees 33.8% Surge in Searches for Women’s Football

Rutland leads the East Midlands region in women's football, signalling a resurgence in grassroots football.  

Search engine analysis by Pipers Corner School analysed “women's football near me” and 1,309 keywords, have revealed a growing interest in women's football in the region.  

England's historic Women’s Euro final victory was one of the most-watched television moments of 2025 across all TV broadcasters, with 12.2 million television viewers.  

Rutland leads with a 33.8% increase in interest in women's football classes with searches rising from 4,140 to 5,440 searches between August 2023 and September 2025.  

Nottinghamshire came second with a notable 27.27% surge in interest.  

Derbyshire came third with a 21.4% increase, followed by Leicestershire, which experienced a 23.2% decline.  

Lisa Britnell, Educational Psychologist at Pipers Corner School, and Sam Sothcott, Director of Sport, both agree that these achievements are inspiring girls to participate in sport, build confidence, and develop leadership skills that extend far beyond sport. 

Lisa explains, “Role models make all the difference, and it is empowering for girls to see women succeed at the highest levels. Sport develops leadership, confidence and resilience that are skills that last a lifetime. Seeing women achieve at the highest level makes this even more real and inspiring for our students.” 

Sam Sothcott, Director of Sport at Pipers Corner School, adds, “The Lionesses’ and Red Roses’ victories haven’t just filled trophy cabinets, they have shifted perceptions, showing young girls that they can take the lead in sport and in life.  

Girls are just as excited about sports as boys. It’s about encouraging participation, celebrating effort, and showing them that leadership on the pitch translates to leadership off it.”  

Together, they highlight practical strategies to help children step away from screens and onto the field, emphasising fun, choice, and positive role models. 

From Screen to Pitch: How to Encourage Your Daughter onto the Football Pitch and Beyond 

Lead by example  

Children often mirror the habits of the adults around them. If they see their parents taking part in sport, watching a match together, or even breaking out a board game on a Sunday afternoon, they are likely to associate being active with having fun and being social.  

Make it choice-driven 

Give your children the power of choice. When they have a say and feel heard, they are more likely to stick with that choice and feel motivated.  

Emphasise Fun Over Performance  

Let the infectiousness of the team spirit spread. Focus on the enjoyment, the teamwork and learning new skills, rather than just winning. Positive experiences, regardless of who is the winner, build confidence and long-term interest.  

Set “Device Time” Strategically  

Select parts of the day where physical activities take priority and pair with family challenges or friendly competition to create a safe environment to try new things.  

Connect Sport to Social Interaction  

Even if your child is reluctant, highlight the social benefits of sport, the prospect of making friends, working in teams and celebrating achievements together reminds children there is a whole community around sport that they can participate in regardless.  

Celebrate Small Wins  

Encourage progress, effort and perseverance. Every goal scored or skill developed is a fantastic way to reinforce the idea that being active is fun. Most of all it builds tenacity and leadership skills.  

Use Role Models and Media Sensitively  

Talk positively about athletes your child admires. Seeing women succeed at the highest level inspires them to try it themselves. 

Make the Environment Welcoming 

Ensure clubs, classes, and teams are inclusive and supportive. Positive coaching and encouragement can make all the difference in sustaining interest over the long term.  

Sam Sothcott of Pipers Corner School explains, “When girls see role models succeeding, it sparks confidence and a willingness to step forward, both on the pitch and in everyday life. This school year is the perfect opportunity for young athletes to take their first steps toward leadership, teamwork, and self-belief.” 

Lisa Britnell concludes, “International sporting achievements show young girls that the world of sport is open to them and that their ambitions have no limits.”