Telling the story of the women's war time match of the day - The Coventry Observer

Telling the story of the women's war time match of the day

Coventry Editorial 12th Jun, 2014 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

WORKING long hours in the harsh and hazardous conditions of the First World War did not stop Coventry women from making the most of what leisure time they had.

The many took jobs in munitions factories created a ladies football league and now almost 100 years on the story of how these women joined together to raise funds for injured soldiers can be told.

The project No Game for Girls will create an online archive, a short film and a travelling exhibition to tell the story of individual munitionettes as well as their triumphs.

It tells the story of teams from across the city, including those from Singer, Daimler, Humber and Coventry Ordnance, who played at a number of grounds such as Highfield Road where spectators donated large sums of money to help injured soldiers.




Coventry City Ladies Football Club will be involved in the project run by Eyefull Media and a £56,400 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“We hope the whole city will be behind the amazing stories of the munitionettes.” said Fran Porter from Eyefull Media.


“Coventry has an important experience of both world wars and is passionate about its footballing history, so we’re delighted and can’t wait to get the work underway.”

Volunteers will carrying out the research while a commemorative football match is being planned.

Despite the popularity of the teams there were those who objected and the women’s efforts were attacked by an Anti Women’s Football campaign followed by a post war ban by the Football Association.

But the project has been warmly welcomed by Coventry South MP Jim Cunningham.

He added: “These women worked hard in our factories in the war and it is right to remember their great contribution.

“The popular games raised a great deal of money which went towards helping soldiers at the front and this project will commemorate their achievements.

“I am pleased to hear that the volunteers taking part will receive training in a range of skills and so the project is not only thanking the munitionettes, but also developing local skills in media. It is an excellent initiative.”

Reader Travel

Check out all of the latest reader travel offers to get your hands on some free gifts.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Coventry Observer newspaper.

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Coventry Observer.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.