Local Holyhead women are using a male-dominated sport to get fit, learn new skills and have some fun.
Cybi Women’s Fitness and Football Club was set up as a pilot group before Christmas, by Rachel Owen, 25, after she was inspired to give it a go, having seen how big a following the sport has in Australia.
Rachel, from Llaingoch, explained: “When I moved back to Holyhead, I wanted to get involved in a new hobby, try something different and get active. There were no other women’s football clubs on the island, so I decided to set up one of my own! Seeing how enthusiastic everybody has been about it, makes it all worthwhile.”
The group have been training indoors with taster sessions at Holyhead Leisure Centre every Wednesday and the membership is growing week-on-week.
Thanks to a £1000 grant from the Community Chest fund, the club can now launch officially and purchase kit and equipment before arranging charity matches before the next season. The grant money can also be used towards the cost of the hall hire, coaching qualifications and First Aid and is a helpful way to help new clubs get on their feet.
Richard Argyle is coaching the team, with assistance from Danny Dumbarton who also coaches Holyhead Hotspur juniors.
Richard, 28, from London Road, said: “It has been great to see so many women playing football and improving every week. There is some good effort and talent in the group. Thanks to the grant money, we can fund some essential items and look forward to some matches and extra training outdoors as the weather brightens up.”
Rachel added: “On behalf of the team, I’d like to thank the Community Chest team and Sports Development at Anglesey Council, as well as a special thanks to our coaches who are volunteering their time and to the women who have been turning up and supporting it.”
Gus Williams, Anglesey Council Football Development Officer said: “Having met with Rachel and Richard with their proposal of setting up a club for women interested in football and fitness, we immediately accessed the
Community Chest for funding. There is a strong sense of togetherness among the group and credit goes to them and their dedication.
“As Football Development Officer I wish them all the best and sincerely hope the funding will create a foundation for the club to flourish for many years.”
For more information on how to join Wednesday and Sunday sessions,, contact Rachel in the first instance, on 07824357681, email: rachel-owen@hotmail.co.uk or join our group on Facebook by searching for ‘Holyhead women’s fitness and football club.’ If any local businesses are interested in sponsoring or supporting our team in any way, please contact us.
