Girls can have short hair – get over it!

Torquay United Community Sports Trust has issued a powerful message in support of young footballers in their girls’ teams after disparaging remarks from some adults.

The statement said: “Sadly, on three occasions this season, members of our Under 10 Girls teams, that compete in the Devon Girls Football League, have been subjected to some vile, disgusting and outdated comments and verbal abuse from adults we have encountered in grassroots football.

“These girls have been accused of being boys, purely down to the way that they look and their chosen hairstyles. As a club, we have been accused of ‘cheating’ and forging player registrations to have boys playing in our Girls football teams.

“In NO circumstances is it okay for anyone to make these comments and accusations to these children. We don’t believe these adults have any idea how damaging these comments could potentially be to these girls. Enough is enough and we will not tolerate this anymore.

“Please show your support for these truly amazing, resilient young women who we are proud to represent our club. We stand together and will not let hate win!”

It is absolutely crazy that grown adults feel the need to comment on the appearance of a child in any sphere, but in the context of a ridiculous level of importance placed on the outcome of a junior football game, it goes beyond crazy to incredibly disrespectful.

Football is a game, life is not, and the things we say to children can stay with them for a long time!