Exploring the barriers and enablers experienced by female off-pitch volunteers within grassroots football

As women’s participation in football continues to grow, there is a desire to see an increase in the number of female volunteers in the game, including in off-pitch roles (administrative, governance and organisational roles within clubs and leagues). However, these roles have traditionally been undertaken by men (Lusted, 2009). Indeed, in England, 86% of off-pitch grassroots football volunteers are male (The FA, internal data).

The aim of this research is to explore the barriers and enablers experienced by female volunteers in the context of off-pitch volunteering. Several theoretical approaches are used to frame the research- Cunningham’s (2022) multi-level lens; institutional theory (DiMaggio & Powell, 1983); and self-determination theory (Ryan & Deci, 2002).
Two primary data collection methods have been used- 1) online questionnaire; and 2) photovoice. Photovoice is a novel participatory method which encourages traditionally marginalised individuals to identify, present and enhance their experiences through the use of photographs (Wang & Burris, 1997).

Early findings from the questionnaire suggest that football federations can influence the club level, but only to a certain degree, with far greater influence coming from within the club environment. It is anticipated that the photovoice will contribute to a deeper causal understanding of the barriers and enablers females encounter when considering whether to, and in the act of volunteering. Thus, this research will help national federations identify strategies to help make the volunteering workforce more inclusive.