Toni Upton | 3rd September 2023
DFC Women's Toni Upton writes a monthly column exclusively for YOURCLUB Content, taking us behind the scenes and giving us the inside track on everything DFC Women. This month, Toni talks about the potential impact of the 2023 Women's World Cup on the game and DFC Women's new captain Lou Brown looks ahead to the new season.
After an exciting summer for women's football, culminating in the 2023 World Cup, the local leagues are ready and raring to go.
The buzz and interest in women's and girl's football is greater than ever, with enough teams for three leagues in the Durham County FA and three teams entered from Darlington alone. This can only be a good thing. However, as we have seen with recent events in the fall out from the World Cup, there is still a long way to go in the women's game at the top level and even further at grassroots.
Let's hope that the success of those at the top will continue to trickle down the leagues so that clubs, particularly those not affiliated with professional men's sides, can get the support they need to continue to compete.
These teams have been the heartbeat of girl's and women's' football up to now, bringing diversity and creating a space for lasses to play football before there were many options. It would be a crying shame if we started to see them struggle to the point they can't continue.
Inspired by the Lionesses, and other teams that showed physical strength, skills and class in many areas on and off field, let's hope for an exciting 2023/24 season for DFC Women!
Captain Lou Brown has this to say about the year ahead:
"The season is finally upon us!
We have taken time to reflect and build on what had been a successful pre-season campaign. With some exciting signings adding depth to an already established squad, there is a strong camaraderie amongst the team and coaching staff. We are raring to go!
We have some exciting, energetic playmakers from our talented youngsters (some who have just stepped up to the women's game), working alongside a core group of physical, determined and experienced players.
There is a healthy competition amongst the team, although we are all fighting our place in the starting 11, everyone is working hard for one another. A consistent approach is paramount this season with each member of the squad having a valuable role to play.
Since joining Darlington I have always had the belief that this team are capable of playing at a higher level and this has been proven through successful cup runs and pre season friendlies.
It will be an honour to wear the captain's armband this year for Darlington Women. As we set our sights firmly on promotion, we would like to thank spectators for their continued support. I hope we can deliver performances throughout this seasons campaign that will make you all proud."
Lou has also taken part in our player profile for this month:
Name: Lou Brown
Position: Centre back
Football team supported: Middlesbrough and Darlo
Favourite player (and why?): Two players stood out to me in my youth. As a young Boro fan, who was probably the same size as this guy at the time, I really enjoyed watching Juninho. With his uncompromising tackles, he was a surprisingly robust and an amazing playmaker. However, David Beckham has to get a mention too. As a winger in my younger years, Beckham always stood out with his precision perfect passing, set plays, skills and ability to remain composed on the ball. My dad dedicated so much time helping me to incorporate these skills into my own game. I have so many fond memories of being taught where best to strike the ball, how to trap the ball accurately from above, but most importantly, how to remain calm and composed under pressure.
Pre-match tune: Despite some some very good contenders from the squad's pre-match playlist, it has to be "Can't Hold Us" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis.
What's something your team-mates might not know about you?: I have made several trips to Moldova and Romania organising and delivering football camps for disadvantaged children living in challenging circumstances. Football has an amazing ability to bring people together, regardless of age, race, gender, culture, or nationality.
Pet hates: Loud chewing, slurping of drinks or full on rustling for popcorn at the cinema!
Favourite films: The Shawshank Redemption, Gladiator and Saving Private Ryan.
Messi or Ronaldo?: Messi
