Central Co-op to sponsor kits for 11 girls’ football teams in honour of the Lionesses’ historic summer

To celebrate the Lionesses reaching the final of this summer’s major European football tournament, we're marking the moment by backing the future of the women’s game by sponsoring 11 grassroots girls’ football teams across our trading area. 

The 11 grassroots teams symbolically reflect the 11 players who take to the pitch - a tribute to the power of collective effort and co-operation, both on and off the field. The initiative is part of our commitment to building stronger, healthier and more inclusive communities. 

Central Co-op Members are invited to nominate a deserving local team for kit sponsorship. The nomination period runs for one week only, from 25^th July – 3^rd of August, so act fast. The process is simple: 

• Email communitygiving@centralcoop.co.uk 
• Nominate a grassroots under 18s girls' team in one of the 22 counties that Central Co-op trades in (see stores.centralengland.coop/search)  
• Explain why this team should be supported in up to 50 words 
• Include your Central Co-op Membership number and contact details 

Sarah Dickins, Chief Operating Officer - Food, Member and Customer at Central Co-op, said: “This summer has been inspirational for women’s football, and we want to keep that momentum going in our local communities. We’re proud to back the grassroots game and support the next generation of Lionesses.”

Nominated teams will be shortlisted based on eligibility criteria, including local relevance, community impact and fair play values. Depending on the number of qualifying nominations, there’ll be an exciting opportunity for teams to rally support, with a public vote to help decide the final selection. 

The opportunity is open to all community-based under 18s girls’ teams, including school teams, youth organisations and football clubs in the 22 counties Central Co-op trades in. The final 11 teams selected will receive £900 to fund a Central Co-op sponsored kit. 

To mark this momentous weekend, we're also giving Members the chance to celebrate in style. Members who spend £20 or more in-store between Friday and Sunday will be automatically entered into a Scan & Win competition, where one lucky winner will receive £200 to spend in-store and ten shoppers will win a bottle of Co-op Les Pioneers NV Champagne – don't forget to scan your Central Co-op Membership card! Win or lose, it’s a toast to the Lionesses’ incredible achievement. 

Central Co-op continues to champion causes that promote health, inclusion and opportunity. This initiative is just one example of how the Society lives its values and supports the next generation of talent through co-operation. 

To follow the campaign and meet the teams selected, follow @centralcoopfood on social media. COME ON ENGLAND!