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A fortnight ago, Women in Football CEO Yvonne Harrison, Deputy CEO Lisa Pool and Ambassador (and former CEO) Jane Purdon were among the guests in London as writer, researcher and women’s football expert Carrie Dunn launched her new book Flying the Flag: The Footballing Heroines Who Made History Abroad.

Among the pioneering women who paved the way for today’s stars is:

• the original Lioness who started a new life in the Netherlands as a teenager,

• the first woman of colour to play for England, and

• the girl who gave up the chance of international recognition to play in Italy. 

Among those spotlighted are Louise Newstead, Issy Pollard, Pauline Hamill and Sian Williams.

In response to asking Carrie what inspired her to write this book, she told us: “I'm honoured to be able to tell the stories of some trailblazing women whose achievements and courage have long - shamefully - been hidden. Knowing their stories, their motivations and the obstacles they faced and overcame are all completely essential to understanding where the women's game currently is, top to bottom, and where it could be in the future.”

 

Carrie has a special offer for WIF members looking to learn more about those who paved the way for the current generation of English and Welsh stars who will be in Switzerland this summer. The offer is available for both this book, and her earlier tome, Woman Up: Pitches, Pay and Periods – the progress and potential of women’s football. 

If you enter the code DUNN25 at the checkout (via either of the two links below), you will receive a 25% discount on orders of Flying the Flag or Woman Up. There is free shipping for UK orders, and the books can also be shipped internationally. 

https://legendbookshop.com/products/flying-the-flag 

https://legendbookshop.com/products/woman-up 

 

In the words of one review: In documenting these pioneering journeys, Dunn has done more than preserve history – she’s highlighted how the sprit of these early rebels continues to motivate and empower today’s generation of players and fans alike. The book stands as a testament to the enduring power of passion over prejudice and the importance of remembering those who blazed a trail for others to follow.

Sentiments that speak very much to the heart of all those at WIF towers, after we re-documented our own history in a five-part series last summer.

The story of WIF: how we got here

The story of WIF: who we are

The story of WIF: speaking out

The story of WIF: making things happen

The story of WIF: joining forces

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