Woman Up: Pitches, Pay and Periods – the progress and potential of women's football

by Carrie Dunn

With the triumph of England’s Lionesses at Euro 2022, the women’s game has been in the spotlight like never before, enjoying unprecedented media attention. But this is the result of decades of struggle to get women’s football – banned by the English FA for fifty years – on a more equal footing to its male counterpart. And while the current professional players are starting to reap the rewards of their success on the pitch, their personal journeys have often involved fighting against the odds, and they are still at a disadvantage in many areas, including access to medical treatment, playing facilities and salaries. So that a new generation of girls getting involved in football all over the world don't face the same obstacles as their predecessors, football journalist Carrie Dunn shines a light on the evolution of women’s football and the gender gaps that persist.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sports

274 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2024

Reviews

[Ares · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable short read, gives some fantastic insight into the struggles, accomplishments, and innovations by women in football, but also importantly emphasizes the strides that must be made (and shortcomings) of leading men in FIFA and other football organizations. My only selfish wish is that there were more lore about the game and the players.

[abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

accessible, informative, unique! this was an awesome summary of some of the things (both positive and negative) that exist only within women's sport and women's football.

not the most analytic or in depth discussion, but an excellent starting point for critical thinking. sections on education, injuries, and clothing (my favourite), this book is a very good summation of women's football.

WOMAN UP!!

[safacake · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

Great starting point for learning more about the current issues in women’s football and some of the talented players in the last 25 yrs.

My favourite chapters were the ones discussing periods and women’s health in football, and how everything (kits, boots, socks, even the length of the grass on the pitch) has always been made with only men in mind.

[Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent analysis of the current state of the game and the challenges that still face women and girls in football. Bang up to date with references to both England's Euros win and the 2023 World Cup.

An essential read for any fan of football or women's sport in general.

[Meg Randall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly readable, thoroughly enjoyed! I am SO PROUD to be a women’s football fan! Girls just do it better ⚽️⚽️⚽️

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Insightful, interesting and accessible.