FA issues apology to Manchester Corinthians Ladies over 1921-71 women’s football ban | OneFootball

The Football Association has this week apologised to Manchester Corinthians Ladies Football Club for the women’s football ban enforced from 1921 to 1971.

In a statement, the FA said it regretted the prohibition and recognised the courage of those who kept playing, adding that its investment in the women’s game has brought unprecedented growth and that it would ensure the sport continues to thrive.

Founded in 1949 by Percy Ashley and named in homage to Corinthian Football Club, as with the Brazilian Corinthians, the team became emblematic of the ban’s era. Barred from affiliated grounds, they trained on public pitches, with Fog Lane Park effectively their base, and toured to raise money for charity.

In 1957 they represented England at an unofficial European women’s tournament in Germany, beating the hosts 4-0 in the final before more than 50,000 spectators.

In 1960 they became the first women’s side to tour South America, drawing thousands to stadiums, although Brazil was not on the itinerary.

Their story returned to prominence in March with Helen Tither’s documentary “The Corinthians: We were the champions”, told through the voices of the 10 surviving players. It is screening in Manchester cinemas until 23 May.

The apology had been sought by former players and Manchester media as part of efforts to address the 50-year ban’s legacy. In 2008 the FA also apologised to Lily Parr of Dick Kerr’s Ladies, the first woman inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame.

Source: Meu Timao