TOTNES & Dartington’s girls-only football club, the Red Pandas, has kept youngsters playing football after first being introduced to it in 2023 by Weetabix charity Wildcats.

Alan Blake, of T&D FC, has been a huge advocate for girls’ football and deserves recognition for the support he has given the committee in growing the club through funding, facilities and guidance.

Over 100 girls come to weekly training with teams between U7s and U13s, not to mention a women’s team also.

Hana Veale, the chairlady and U9s coach, said “It’s been an absolute pleasure watching these girls go from strength to strength.

“Red Pandas has become more than just learning how to play football. We are a community. Building confidence, strength and resilience in girls.”

One parent called it “the best experience” for their child whilst one of the girls says that “It’s been an awesome year” and that they “make me feel like I belong.”

This club has already had a notable positive impact on the community. Plenty of noticed changes in attitudes with the idea that ‘girls can’t play football’ moving aside to allow them to grow in confidence instead.

It is becoming the norm with the community football pitches being used by both girls and boys, not to mention that local primary schools has seen an uptick of interest in football and sports in general from their young girls.

Inclusivity, having fun and being a part of a team are all ideals at the heart of the Red Pandas.

The club is also receiving praise from the parents, one commenting that they “can’t wait to see how far they go next season.”

Another said, “The popularity of this club is mainly due to the role the coaches have played. They are the most energetic and committed people.

“Their positivity, encouragement and passion have had such a massive impact on every single girl.”

Red Pandas continue to be a credit to all involved as they go from strength to strength.