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New strategy launched to transform Scottish women's football over 10 years

Chris McLaughlinScotland sports news correspondent
SNS A Scotland women's player running across a pitch while dribbling the ballSNS
Scotland's Rachel McLauchlin in action during a Fifa Women's World Cup qualifying match earlier this year

The Scottish FA and Scottish government have launched a new strategy aimed at transforming women's and girls' football over the next 10 years.

Project 2035, supported by £250,000 of government funding this year, aims to increase participation levels, strengthen pathways into the game and establish Scotland as a leading nation for women's football by 2035.

A new taskforce will oversee the delivery of the plan, involving the Scottish government, the SFA, Scottish Women's Football, the Scottish Women's Premier League, PFA Scotland, Sportscotland and Cosla.

The strategy aims to double the number of registered female players in Scotland, while also quadrupling attendances and audiences for matches.

The ambition is also to see regular qualification for major tournaments - something the Scotland women's team haven't achieved since reaching the World Cup in 2019.

SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell says the women's game would benefit from the exposure that comes from big events.

"We saw in the men's World Cup in the summer, the impact that had across the country and to be able to replicate that from a women's point of view, we can't underestimate the benefit that would bring."

First Minister John Swinney said the project will build on the growth already seen in the women's game in recent years.

"Football has the power to bring communities together, improve health and wellbeing, and inspire young people to achieve their potential," he said.

"Our ambition is simple: every girl in Scotland who wants to be part of football should have the opportunity to do so, whether as a player, coach, official, volunteer, supporter or leader."

SNS Scotland women's squad posing in two rows for a photograph on the pitchSNS
Scotland are preparing for a World Cup play-off with Sweden next month

The launch comes amid continued growth in women's football in Scotland, with participation, attendances and investment increasing across the professional and grassroots game.

However, those involved in the project acknowledge challenges remain around facilities, volunteer support, coaching pathways and retaining players within the sport.

The taskforce will be responsible for monitoring progress towards the strategy's targets over the next decade.