Page 29 - Women's Soccer Scene Issue No.10 2022-23

The history of the England senior women’s team is
to be permanently celebrated with the introduction
of legacy numbers.
The initiative will celebrate the 227
individuals who hold the honour of representing
the nation at the senior women's level with their
own unique number, mirroring the England senior
men’s team.
The full list of legacy numbers was revealed
today to mark 50th anniversary of the team’s first
full international on 18 November 1972 against
Scotland.
From 1972 goalkeeper Sue Buckett (no.1),
through to latest debutant Katie Robinson (no.227), all former and current players will be
able to collectively acknowledge their own part in England’s history. A full list of legacy
numbers and a list of every game in England women’s history can be viewed via
www.englandfootball.com/england/senior-womens-team/Legacy.
The numbers will be debuted on England’s matchday shirt against Korea Republic on
Thursday 16th February 2023 at Stadium MK, when each member of the current squad will
proudly display have their own unique number on their matchday shirt.
The legacy numbers were initially announced in the build up to the Lionesses’ fixture
against the USA which was dedicated to the 50th anniversary. As part of the celebrations on
the evening, members of the inaugural 1972 team received their bespoke England cap with
their legacy number as part of a special dressing room presentation.
Every former player will in due course receive the honour of a special velvet cap with
their newly-established legacy number embroidered on the front.
All former players have been identified via a thorough research programme
commissioned by The FA. The programme, to better recognise the history of the women’s
game, was assisted by grant funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to
National Lottery players. JJ Heritage, former members of the WFA, FIFA, UEFA, the
National Football Museum, the British Library and other members of the women’s football
family have been central to its creation.
Kay Cossington, Head of Women’s Technical at The FA, said: “Every former player has
played their part in the team’s journey and the introduction of legacy numbers is a
permanent reminder of their impact and the history of the England senior women’s team. All
227 players are valued members of the ‘England family’ and we hope they can reflect with
pride on being part of a small group of women who have transformed football and made an
everlasting impact on society.
“We want to thank each and every one who has worn the shirt since 1972 and
epitomised what it means to be a Lioness. Their number will always remain unique to them
and is a symbol of their legacy in growing the game.
“We remain indebted to many in the women’s football family who have helped collate
this historic list and the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund. I would like to pay
particular tribute to Professor Jean Williams and Patricia Gregory, who have worked
tirelessly with FA colleagues over a number of years to bring this project to life.”
To celebrate the 50th anniversary, former players Sue Whyatt, Carol Thomas and Kerry
Davis joined members of the current squad at St George’s Park last week.
Photo - Kerry Davis pictured with current international Lauren James.
news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk