St Bartholomew's School pupils receive FA award after Lionesses' success at UEFA Women's Euro

Two St Bart’s pupils have been celebrating more footballing success after being inspired by the UEFA Women’s Euros.

Following record-breaking viewing figures watching the Lionesses victory, year 11 students Poppy Camplin and Abi Rutt have become worthy recipients of an FA #LetGirlsPlay award.

The girls were both nominated by their school for their hard work in supporting girls’ participation in football.

The Football Association’s campaign, #LetGirlsPlay, aims to give all girls equal access to play football in school by 2024.

Poppy and Abi said: “Girls’ football is the fastest growing sport and we want to get involved with that. Everybody should have the opportunity to play.

“It’s amazing that we’ve managed to win this award. It’s an incredible feeling”.

Having completed the Barclays Game On Activators course, the pair “demonstrated excellent knowledge and understanding of the game to motivate and inspire other girls of all abilities”.

Their school is part of The FA Girls’ Football Partnership and said it is dedicated to offering girls’ football as part of its curriculum.

Nicky Ostinelli, head of PE at St Bart’s, said: “I am proud of St Bart’s inclusive approach to sport. Girls’ football is going from strength-to-strength and this year we have entered three different age groups into the West Berkshire League, as well as the English Schools Cup and County Cup.

“I cannot wait to see how our teams get on. The successes we are having are down to the enthusiasm and commitment of our students and this is fantastic recognition of Abi and Poppy’s passion for football.”

Lyndsey Leach, the PE teacher who nominated Abi and Poppy for the award, added: “It is such an exciting time for women’s football, with the England team’s stellar performance at the Euros and record attendance figures for the sport.

“I am delighted for Poppy and Abi, not only do the girls have a love of the sport and demonstrate fantastic football skills and leadership, but they are also encouraging their peers to participate and thrive in the game.

“I cannot wait to see this new generation take on the mantle.”