Welcome to St James Park for what will be a fantastic afternoon of football and a celebration of the hard work of so many in growing and developing the women’s game at Exeter City.
We would also like welcome Steve Cuss and his team to Devon, and hope they enjoy their afternoon and the role that they will play in being part of such an occasion.
Out on the pitch, we have been pleased with the start to the new season thanks to several good performances, and the opportunity to top the division with a victory this afternoon is its own indication of the start we have had.
However, there is always room for improvement and, with so many talented teams in this division, the consistency required for promotion is going to be considerable. It is a challenge that we have been looking forward to and are embracing wholly. No doubt, this is a big afternoon in our season and three points will be the aim.
It is a pleasure to see so many sports teams and schools attending today. It is important that the next generation of young female footballers see just what opportunities can lay ahead for them, and we hope you stick around after the game to get some autographs and meet the team.
Ahead of the game there are so many who we wish to thank for their support, not least our sponsors and partners who include Richard Pym, Carpetright, Crealy, Eagle One, East Devon Grecians, Exeter College, Kandy Toys, Topan, The University of Exeter, today’s Match Sponsors RGB Building Supplies, and all of the numerous individuals and organisations who provide sponsorships to each of our first team squad.
We also want to send our thanks to all at Exeter City Football Club and the Exeter City Supporters’ Trust for their generous support and the opportunity to play at St James Park, and also to Jamie Vittles and the team at Exeter City Community Trust for their significant efforts in developing both the Women’s team and Girl's football in Exeter on a day-to-day basis.
Together you are helping to create something special here in the city, and we couldn’t do it without you!
On the pitch today you will see players who are Firewomen, Postwomen, Dog Walkers, Students, Educators and so many other things to so many people, and they work tirelessly to be the best athletes and footballers they can be. For our players, today is not just a game of football, but a testament to all of that hard work and collective spirit, and we are immensely proud and excited for the opportunity today offers.
To all our supporters that follow us home and away, enjoy today. For those whom today is your first Women’s game, do not let it be your last. Please continue to help us grow the sport and support your local women and girl's teams.
Finally, to all those young girls here this afternoon, dream big. This lifestyle can be a reality. If you can see it, you can be it.
Up The City!
Abbie and Aaron