A first unprecedented rally of women’s football leaders was held last week in Alès. An initiative carried by the Gard-Lozère district, with the support of the city, and the participation of players of the Nîmes Olympique.
They are president, educator, player, often the three at a time. And for the first time, they were gathered in Alès to share their field experience, their passion for the round ball and the challenges they come up on a daily basis in a still very masculine world.
This meeting, organized by the Gard-Lozère football district and Olympique d’Alès en Cévennes, brought together a dozen leaders from all over the territory. Objective: create a space for exchange and recognition, but also lay the foundations for an active network between women engaged in amateur football.
A first collective speech
Among the participants, well -known figures like Béatrice Kaboré, player of the Olympic Nîmes and model for many young girls. Alongside him, educators in rural areas, volunteers who combine the caps – team animator to club secretary – and presidents of small structures that hold good, often with few means, but a lot of will.
« It’s not always simple, but we move forward. This kind of encounter makes it possible to realize that many of the same battles », Testifies one of the participants, invested for more than ten years in his Gard club.
Institutional support and perspectives
The football delegate, Patricia Candre, was also present, alongside local elected officials such as Ysabelle Castor, former vice-president of the OAC club and representatives of the Federation. All welcomed the initiative, which could give rise to other editions in the coming months. ” Lhe women’s football is not only built on the grounds. He needs trained, supported leaders, listened to “Says a district official.
Players, leaders, presidents, coaches gathered to evoke women’s football. • R.F.
This gathering is part of a broader dynamic of feminization of sports bodies and enhancement of female engagement. A subject that is gaining momentum while amateur football clubs seek to reinvent themselves, and that female practice, although always a minority, continues to progress in the Gard and the Lozère.
A strong symbol in a sports city
In Alès, a historic city of popular sport, this first gathering takes on a particular dimension. It reflects a local desire to develop mentalities and to give their place to women in the sports landscape. The next step could be the organization of training time, pooling good practices or personalized support for clubs engaged in this transition. Women’s football is drawing its way. And this time, the leaders are advancing on the front line.
