Rachel Yankey backs ‘Play Their Way’ as Oxford United Girls champion child-first coaching | OneFootball

In the wake of the England’s inspiring success on the international stage, Oxford United is playing its part in ensuring that legacy lasts — not just for today, but for the next generation of girls.

The club hosted a landmark training session with its Under 13s girls’ team, bringing together football and England legend Rachel Yankey and This Girl Can founder Kate Dale to spotlight the powerful impact of child-first coaching through the Play Their Way campaign.

This event couldn’t come at a more critical time. Despite record interest in girls’ football, studies show that many girls begin to drop out of sport once they leave primary school due to the coaching environments not reflecting the needs and wants.

Play Their Way is a growing national movement working to change that, and Oxford United is showing what good looks like.

England legend Rachel Yankey backs Oxford United child-first model

“It’s so important that we make those first experiences for girls taking part in football or any sport positive and empowering ones,” said Yankey. “The child-first model that Oxford United have developed is so important for girls and needs to be adopted far more widely across the country.”

OXFORD, ENGLAND – JULY 09: Former England footballer Rachel Yankey with attendees during the Play Their Way Major Moments Women’s Euros 2025 event at Oxford United Sports Park on July 09, 2025 in Oxford, England. (Photo by Harry Murphy/Getty Images for Play Their Way)

This approach is simple but powerful: coaches prioritise fun, flexibility, and player voice. Girls are given choices, are listened to and are empowered to shape their own experiences. It’s about enjoyment and the results are proving transformational.

Kate Dale, who has long campaigned for more inclusive sport for women and girls, highlighted the long-term stakes.

“The gender gap in activity levels starts young and can last into adulthood – affecting the health and wellbeing of girls now and in the future. Positive early experiences of sports are vital, so that girls want to keep taking part and don’t drop out. Play Their Way and the child-first coaching approach – focusing on fun and engaging with what children want — is an essential part of closing the gap and keeping girls active.”

By creating a space where girls feel seen, heard and excited to return to week after week, Oxford United are helping set a new standard for how grassroots football can support girls — not just to take part, but to belong.

To find out more about child-first coaching and how to bring it to your team or club, visit playtheirway.org.

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