Ditch the Gym – Grab Your Trainers! Erin Cooper’s Social Football Is Here

Ladies, if your New Year’s resolutions will involve fitness, fun, and making new friends, Erin Cooper has the perfect opportunity for you. 

In January 2025, Erin is launching a women’s Social Football programme at Score FC in Coleraine - a stress-free initiative designed for women of all abilities.

For Erin, football has been a lifelong passion. 

“I've played football at club level from the age of 12 until the age of 34. I stopped playing then when I had my first child.

“Football was such a massive part of my life and the only time I stopped was during Covid and IVF/Pregnancy.”

Now, with her 18-month-old toddler keeping her on her toes, she’s ready to share her love of the game.

"Football has had such a positive impact on my physical and mental health," Erin says. "It’s not just about fitness. I’ve learned so many skills like teamwork, resilience, and communication that are transferable to every part of life."

Inspired by her experience on the Irish Football Association Female Leadership Course, she spotted a gap in the local football scene. 

“The course gave me the confidence to start a social football team in my local area,” she explained. “After seeing the success within GAA clubs and their 'Mothers & Others' teams, I recognised a gap within the football ladder with many women missing out on an opportunity to be involved in the sport.”

So, what exactly is Social Football? Erin describes it as "a no-pressure environment".

“Whilst there are teams competing in the Northern Ireland Women's Football Association leagues in the North Coast area I am not aware of any football at a less competitive level,” said Erin.

“The difference between social football and league football would be a more fun lead structure and less competitive than the league teams.

“I want it to be a place where women can come together, and play a sport without the pressure of ‘not being good enough’ or ‘I've never played football, I'm not going to start at this age.’

“ It also allows women who used to play the sport but left for whatever reason to get back into the game regardless of fitness level.

 "We especially want to attract women aged 25+ who think football isn’t for them," Erin explains. "No experience is needed and skills will be learned and developed as we go.”

Erin’s Social Football sessions aim to deliver far more than just a workout. 

“It’s all about building confidence and creating a space where everyone feels welcome,” continues Erin.

“The benefits are endless. This creates an open environment to meet new people, exercise at your own pace, learn new skills, socialise, feel the spirit of team sport and truly feel a part of something. 

“It gives mums and busy women an hour a week to forget about the stresses of life and put themselves first.”

Erin understands that many women feel hesitant about trying something new, but she has a simple message; "Come along, give it a try. Bring a friend if you feel shy. 

“If it’s not for you, at least you gave it a go. You have nothing to lose and you might just love it!"

For Erin, initiatives like this are crucial for promoting women’s health and fitness, especially for those who feel they’ve aged out of starting a sport. 

"There’s not enough out there for women who want to pursue sport as they get older," she says. "There’s this fear of not being fit enough or good enough to join in, and I want to break that barrier. This initiative caters for all ages and abilities, nobody should feel out of place."

The sessions kick off on Friday, 10th January 2025, at Score FC in Coleraine but what can people expect?

“Expect a warm welcome, a quick warm up and a kick about, there are no rules you need to learn before coming. 

“Just wear something comfy, throw on your trainers and come down. We won't be taking ourselves too seriously!”

Erin is already dreaming big for the future. 

“I’d love to see a Friday night league for women at Score," she shares. "I can see this growing in interest and I will help it develop into what the women who participate would like to be involved in. 

“There are other social football teams across Northern Ireland who run tournaments and seek friendly matches so there are plenty of options.”

Whether you’ve never played before or haven’t played since school, this is your chance to start something new, connect with others, and have fun.

"Football has brought so much joy and strength to my life," adds Erin. "I can’t wait to share that with others. Come along, join in, and let’s make 2025 the year we try something new - together."

If you are interested or would like more information contact Erin via email: [email protected] or Whats app: 07594930355