A Most Unsuitable Game: Celebrating Scottish Women’s Football Fifty Years After the Ban
Women have been playing football in Scotland continuously for over a century and its roots can be traced back hundreds of years. Women have had to fight for opportunities to play the game they love. They have been banned and discriminated against. They have faced hostility and sexism. And yet, they persevered and found ways to play. Because playing football as a women or girl has, until recently, been viewed as something controversial and involving small numbers of women, this rich history has been overlooked, ignored or ‘hidden’. This book is therefore about shining a light onto the stories and experiences of the women and girls who have played the beautiful game in Scotland at all levels and in all settings. This book reflects the stories of those who played for formal teams, those who represented Scotland, and those who played informally in their local streets, backcourts or parks. What comes across from these stories and poems is a passion for playing football, the joy that the game provides regardless of where it is played and the sense of community and connection that it creates amongst those who play it or support a team.
‘Tenacity, prowess and passion. This book is a celebration of women’s resilience and strength – it tells the untold tales of women’s football through poems, stories and reminiscences. Fiona, Karen and Julie have created a long overdue celebration of the determination and passion that became the foundation of the modern game.’ Eddi Reader
‘A wonderful celebration of the pioneering women footballers who campaigned so hard to take their rightful place in the beautiful game.’ Kirsty Wark