A talented group of young footballers have been raising money in a bid to play at a national level.

The Player Progression Coaching (PPC) Lionesses under 9 girls' team is hoping the money will take them to the UK's premier national youth football tournament – The One Tournament in Warwickshire.

The team is based in Manchester, and includes many players from Stockport.

Since the team was formed in September 2024, they've won a series of tournament titles and have progressed through the ranks of the city's most competitive football league, dominated by boys' teams.

The PPC Lionesses recently made history after being announced as the first all-girl squad to reach the top league in the Manchester Youth Super League (MYSL) competing against boys their own age.

The 13-strong team of girls aged 8 and 9 now has several players attending Emerging Talent Centres at professional football clubs throughout the North-West. 

The community fundraising campaign is aimed at raising £2,500 to cover entry fees, travel and accommodation for each player to attend the national tournament.

(Image supplied)

Ashley Holland, PPC Founder, said: "It's been a joy to be part of the girls' progression, and to see how far they've come in such a short space of time really demonstrates their talent, love for the game and determination to succeed.

"We're passionate about girls' development here at PPC and are always on the lookout for opportunities where the team can challenge themselves and progress as young players. That's why we knew we had to test ourselves against the best boys' teams in the region, and why we want to attend national tournaments like this one, to compete against the best girls' teams in the country and show what we can do.

"But getting to these tournaments isn't always easy and this support will ensure that each and every player will have the access to these amazing opportunities, to become the best that they can be."

Billy Hilton, Owner of Manchester Youth Super League (MYSL), adds "MYSL are proud to play a part in the development of these U9 girls. To play in our highest division at their own age is a testament to both the players and coaches dedication and effort. They are the first all-girls team to do this in the history of MYSL and we welcome and challenge more girls' teams to follow in their footsteps."

The fundraiser has now ended, but you can support the team on their Instagram page here.

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