For our women’s team’s home clash against Comets on Sunday, October 13th we will welcome Hackney Laces to the Stray Dog.

They will walk the players onto the pitch, and also show off their skills and take penalties against a (yet to be named) Clapton goalkeeper during half-time. 

Hackney Laces was formed in 2011, as the founders saw a lack in opportunities for females to play football.

What they found was that their footballing sessions were not only a great way for players to up their game, but also empowering and a way for everyone to raise their aspirations. 

The Hackney Laces community are currently supporting over 200 girls in East London, teaching sportsmanship and footballing techniques, and through their ‘off the pitch’ programme, they also hold workshops in CV writing and job applications, first aid training, self-esteem, and much more. 

Clapton CFC’s own Aneequa Prescod Wright is part of the community, and had this to say:  “Laces is a large family of ballers, and through positive mentorship, our girls are taught about resilience, positive relationships, and to have fun!”

Congratulations also to Hackney Laces founder Katee Hui, who won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year, Unsung Hero for London.

To find out more about Sunday’s game against Comets, read our big preview.

For more on Hackney Laces, follow them on Twitter or visit their website.