Baroness Sue Campbell steps down as FA director, what’s next for women’s football?

In a significant move for sports governance in England, Baroness Sue Campbell was appointed as the new chair of England Netball, with her term set to start in January 2025. Campbell, who previously served as the FA's director of women's football, retired from her role earlier this year after successfully elevating women's football, particularly the performance of the Lionesses, transforming it into a central component of the FA's strategy. Her extensive background in sports includes her role as the top leader at Youth Sport Trust and UK Sport, contributing significantly to initiatives aimed at improving physical activity among young girls. As she takes on this new challenge, Campbell emphasizes the unique context of netball as a women-led sport, designed specifically for girls and women, contrasting it with her past experiences in men's-dominated football. She expresses excitement about the potential for growth and engagement within netball, highlighting a clear mission to combat sedentary lifestyles that disproportionately affect girls. Campbell notes that while the overall competition in sports is important, the real challenge lies in addressing the inactive lifestyles that many young girls lead. Baroness Campbell is personally connected to the sport, having played netball in her younger years and representing England at the U21 level. She views her return to the sport as a homecoming and hopes to inspire a new generation of players and participants. Her previous leadership experiences and insights from governing body operations position her well to drive significant changes within England Netball, focusing on increasing participation levels among girls of all ages and abilities. This strategic approach underscores her commitment not just to the sport itself, but to the broader health and well-being of young people in England. With a clear goal of making netball engaging and accessible, Campbell aims to leverage her passion for the sport to encourage more girls to become active participants. She is determined to initiate pathways that draw new players into the sport, fostering a culture where physical activity is celebrated and prioritized, ultimately contributing to enhanced physical and mental health among young women. Campbell believes this is a defining moment for sports participation, particularly in establishing venues where girls can play and thrive in netball, ensuring a bright future for the sport in the years to come.