Foundation of Light launch new programme to develop female football coaches
Foundation of Light are pleased to launch an exciting new initiative to develop female football coaches in Sunderland.
England Women’s Euro success is another boost to women and girls’ football after the Foundation of Light stepped up its girls-only session delivery.
This summer’s holiday course programme includes more girls-only football sessions than ever before to keep up with the soaring demand since the Lionesses’ European triumph in 2022.
Since then, the England side has continued to inspire with another major tournament final at the 2023 World Cup, and the defence of their Euro title in Sunday’s thrilling final against Spain.
“The Lionesses’ Euro 2025 win has inspired so many young girls and now’s the perfect time to turn that inspiration into action,” said Foundation of Light CEO Lesley Spuhler.
“At Foundation of Light, we’re proud to offer a whole range of female football activities throughout the school holidays, giving girls of all ages and abilities the chance to play, learn and grow in a safe, supportive and fun environment.
“Whether they dream of lifting trophies or just want to enjoy the game with friends, we’ve got something for everyone. Now is the perfect time to get involved and be part of the future of women’s football.”
Here’s a look at our girls-only sessions this summer:
Foundation of Light are hosting two-day Girls Only Football Camps at Beamish and Boldon and a three-day camp at Wellfield. The camps will see girls aged 5-14-year-old take part in a range of training drills and games with UEFA and FA qualified coaches.
Beamish: 4-5 August, 10am-3pm
Boldon: 6-7 August, 10am-3pm
Wellfield: 11-13 August, 10am-3pm
Futsal camps are being hosted at Boldon and the Beacon of Light. Small-sided football offers the perfect environment to work on finer technical skills including composure under pressure and playing in tight spaces.
Beacon: 11-12 August, 10am-3pm
Boldon: 26-27 August, 10am-3pm
Beamish Football Centre will host a Wildcats Camp for girls aged 5-11-year-old. The one-day masterclass is aimed at all abilities looking to participate in football, offering fun drills and games delivered by qualified coaches.
Date: 21 August, 10am-12pm
An all-abilities session for girls aged 11-14-year-old to take part in football in a fun and safe environment delivered by the Foundation’s qualified coaches at Beamish Football Centre.
Date: 21 August, 1pm-3pm
All abilities are welcome at this two-day camp aimed at those looking to take their game to the next level. Train Like a Lioness will offer a challenging but supportive environment, with high-level football drills alongside strength and condition at Sunderland College’s Bede Campus for 5-14-year-olds.
Dates: 28-29 August, 10am-3pm
A day of football and fun for 3-5-year-olds. The Little Lionesses Big Day Out series will offer football coaching with Foundation coaches alongside activities, games, and tours to keep little ones engaged.
Dates: 30 July, 13 August, and 27 August, 10am-12pm
Foundation of Light are pleased to launch an exciting new initiative to develop female football coaches in Sunderland.
Foundation of Light and Sunderland AFC have won the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in recognition of our ongoing commitment to the armed forces community.
The ‘Skills Awards’ night celebrated the achievements of those working with Sunderland AFC’s official charity’s employability, community learning, and alternative education programmes.