THE WOMEN’S Super League trophy was unveiled at the launch of an exhibition exploring women’s football in Brighton this week.
The silverware went on display as part of Goal Power, an exhibition at Brighton Museum and Art Gallery following the journey of women’s football from 1894 until today.
Influential players from the game attended Wednesday’s launch event, including Eileen Bourne, the first woman to be sent off for swearing in a football match, and Maggie Murphy, CEO of Lewes WFC, the first club offering equal pay to the men and women’s teams.
The Super League is equivalent to the men’s Premier League. The cup will remain at the museum until June 29.
It comes as part of the celebrations around the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 championship.
CEO of The Royal Pavilion and Museums Trust, Hedley Swain, said: “We are excited to be hosting this important exhibition – a celebration of the women who have championed the cause of women’s football, closely linked to the wider campaign for women’s equality.
“With Brighton and Hove as one of the host cities for this summer’s UEFA Women’s EUROS 2022, we hope the exhibition will play its part in continuing the process of recognising the women’s game and bringing even more equality to world football.”
Goal Power itself features various historical items from the women’s game, including a pair of leather football boots from 1921, owned by Fanny Williams, who played for Swindon Town Ladies.
Celebrations for the women’s Euros will take place across the summer, as Brighton and Hove is a host city for the contest.
Three fixtures are to be held at the Amex stadium, including a quarter final.
A roadshow will also be visiting the city on June 25. The free event will include live musical performances, an immersive TV studio, interactive challenges and a chance to have your picture taken with the trophy. The event, which is part of a nationwide tour of each of the nine host cities, will be held on Hove Promenade.
UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 tournament director Chris Bryant said: “With the city hosting three fixtures, the event is a great way to get more people involved in the tournament.
“We’ve got an exciting day ahead which will help to introduce more people to the women’s game in a fun environment that the whole family can enjoy together.”
Goal Power opens to the public on Saturday, June 18.
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