Emma Watson's most recent cover story for Vanity Fair has caused quite a stir in that she posed almost topless in one of the photographs. As a feminist and the face of the HeForShe campaign, many seem to be disgusted by this because it is a "sexualised" image. So the 'Harry Potter' and 'Beauty and the Beast' actress and activist is being scrutinised for a photo showing a part of her body "sexualised" by media and society. Women are put under the microscope for everything they do it seems.
What does this have to do with following football, you may ask? Well, it's a pretty simple crossover.
I have supported West Bromwich Albion for practically my whole life, followed properly since the age of 14 and attended games regularly since the 2013/14 season, having been to games sporadically since I was 7.
Family members, friends and work colleagues have often said to me, "why do you go to watch that rubbish? It's a man's game!" Yes, way back when, men made up the majority of the attendance at grounds but women have still been in the crowd for many years. I've often heard stories about ladies who were lucky enough to see Albion lift the FA Cup in 1954 (how I wish that feat could be repeated soon)! Whether you're male or female, if you enjoy something, why should it be judged by others just because they don't understand?
Being an active Twitter user who tweets a lot about football, it has had its difficulties as a minority of "trolls" and "keyboard warriors" cannot seem to grasp the idea that a girl may actually have an interest in the sport and on occasion being more knowledgeable than them. This has led to verbal abuse and derogatory comments, which is proof that although we may be in the 21st Century, there is still a long way to go before the game, or more so its fans, have adapted to a more equal society.
Raise your hands, ladies, if you've ever had someone say to you: "I bet you only go to games because you think (insert name here) is fit." Of course. I pay £30 plus £25 travel because I want to see James Morrison's face. There's more more to smile about if he scores a 30 yard screamer, I tell you!!
Last season when travelling home from a rainy Manchester, myself and three female friends sat opposite a group of Man City fans, whom we chatted to for the majority of the journey. One of the men told us how refreshing it was to see a group of girls following their team around the country like we do, and that he's never seen anything like it before. Is that really the case? I have to admit I don't think I've seen girls supporting other clubs doing what we do. It would be nice to see it more often!
I am that girl who likes dresses and makeup, but also likes football. No, I do not wear a skirt to matches "to get attention" nor do I wear makeup "to impress the lads". I do it because I am comfortable being myself and being free to make my own choices. Going back to the original point, Emma Watson campaigns for men and women to have equal rights, whether on the bigger scale of equal pay or if it's just how we want to express ourselves. It is so inspiring that she felt confident to pose for the "controversial" photoshoot, in the same way that women should be able to enjoy and share their views on something they have a passion for.
Well said Lizzie. I grew up in the '80's when it was frowned upon to go to the football unless you went 'with your bloke' but I've been a season ticket holder for over 20 years and although I'm now a 'Middle Aged Woman' and single I still get patronising comments from some away fans. I love the game and the passion (as well as James obviously!) and think it's fabulous that you and your friends follow this fabulous game. Trust me women usually have much more reasoned, sensible arguments around the game.
ReplyDeleteThank you! And too right on us ladies having more reasoned and sensible arguments!! It's a real shame you had to go through that in the 80s, and it seems now with the rise in social media it hasn't changed much. :(
DeleteWonderful article and great thoughts. Women should be free to make their own choices and I always disagree with the common logic that a woman cannot like traditional feminine "choices" such as to wear make-up etc as well as go to football matches. I also hope that the day comes very soon that you can go to a football match without patronising and belittling comments, I for one think its good to see diversity in the crowds and on the pitch.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I was most disappointed to see the "ladies having more reasoned and sensible arguments line". Unfortunately, this is perhaps the one area of sexism that constantly gets overlooked. In many ways and in many cases the feminists that argue for gender equality are just as, if not more sexist than the people they challenge.
So to conclude, a brilliant post which I commend you for and I really hope the environment becomes less anti-female in the future, something I support wholeheartedly; however I find the contradiction of complaining about derogatory comments and then making a derogatory comment most offensive.
Thanks for the kind words. It's moreso the case online from the keyboard warriors that brings out the worst comments and opinions. Although I have had certain experiences in person with some derogatory.
DeleteAs for "reasoned and sensible arguments" line, again, it's not tarring all with the same brush, of course. I've had very good debates with fellow football supporters no matter their gender. I was simply agreeing with a reply to my piece from my own personal experiences where I haven't had as much issue with women as I have men on differing views.
Good good, I always like to clarify these things because, especially online, you can never fully gauge opinion and true feelings if that makes sense?
DeleteLike I say though, it was an enjoyable read and forget the trolls!!
Oh definitely!!
DeleteThank you so much. :)