Image by Blackburn Rovers FC

Rovers are pleased to announce an official partnership with #HerGameToo, as part of the club’s ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion under its #OneRovers umbrella.

Ahead of International Women’s Day last month, Rovers dedicated a game against Sheffield United to the #HerGameToo campaign, which aims to foster an ethos in football in which women are welcomed and respected equally.

Founded in May 2021, the voluntary organisation is run by female football fans, who dedicate time to support the progression of #HerGameToo, alongside working full-time in their day jobs.

The #HerGameToo team strive to be a catalyst for positive change and are driven by the ideas of support, empowerment and progress.

Their aims include developing a strong sense of community and creating strong relationships with clubs and CCOs (Club Community Organisations). They also continue to campaign against sexism in football and against online abuse, and to champion women in football.

As part of the club’s commitment to the campaign, Rovers fan Megan Longworth has become the new #HerGameToo representative.

The 25-year-old, who has been a season ticket holder at Ewood since she was just 10 months old, has strong Rovers roots, with her mum being one of the first footballers to play for the club’s Ladies team, whilst her parents had a blue-and-white themed wedding!

Megan said, “I’ve seen Rovers in three tiers of the football pyramid, from the Premier League and winning the Worthington Cup in Cardiff, to being relegated to League One and the day we were promoted back to the Championship. I’m fully invested in being a Rovers fan and every game feels like I’m on an emotional rollercoaster … it’s a good job I like the thrill!

“#HerGameToo is a group of female supporters who are passionate about football and who are working together to eradicate sexism in the football industry. We want women and girls of all ages to feel confident and safe sharing their opinion about football, both online and in real life, without fear of sexist or misogynistic abuse.

“As a #HerGameToo ambassador, I’d like to be a part of inspiring women and children of all ages to be confident and look forward to going to a game. I hope to make Ewood Park an even more welcoming, safe and friendly environment for all women and girls when attending games.

“I will work closely with Blackburn Rovers Community trust and the current community groups we have for our LGBTQ+ and South Asian supporters, I will raise issues that may stop women and girls coming to games at Ewood Park and I will be a voice and advocate for women and girls that feel unable to speak up.

“I have started working with staff from the club and look forward to working collaboratively on lots of projects in the future. I truly believe that #HerGameToo, with the full support of Blackburn Rovers and our fans, can move forward with this amazing campaign and bring issues to the forefront to gain maximum exposure for the causes we all believe in.”

Rovers have reminded supporters of their shared commitment to tackling discrimination and abuse.

To confidentially report discrimination or abuse, please contact the club on 07340 294474 or email [email protected].

Alternatively, you can visit www.hergametoo.co.uk/report.