Football News Update: Thornaby FC Reinstates Women’s Teams After Backlash
In a major development in the world of football, Thornaby FC has announced the reinstatement of its women’s teams just a few days after a controversial decision to axe them.
The club, based in the North East and Cumbria region, had earlier this week voted to drop its female teams following a “difficult year”. However, the decision sparked a significant backlash, with the club’s first team manager Abbey Lyle and England player Beth Mead, who grew up near Whitby, North Yorkshire, criticizing the move.
“We have been around this fantastic club for the last couple of years and this next chapter is an exciting prospect to be part of,” said Alison McGee, the newly appointed chief executive officer of Thornaby FC. “There is so much potential for men and women together, girls and boys, one club.”
Pending financial due diligence checks, Ms. McGee will be joined on the board by chairman Garry Morris, Philip Genery, and Rachel Stonehouse, along with her husband and Durata managing director, John McGee.
The decision to scrap the women’s section of the club had threatened to leave about 100 players without a team, affecting all of Thornaby FC’s female teams, including the under-7s, under-8s, under-10s, under-11s, under-15s, and the women’s side.
The six board members who voted to cut the teams have since stepped down, including former chief executive Trevor Wing. Club chairman Gary Morris, who voted against the initial decision, has remained in his position.
This reversal of the controversial decision is a significant victory for the women’s football community and a testament to the power of grassroots support and advocacy. As the upcoming seasons of major football competitions approach, this news from Thornaby FC serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities in the sport.
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