Representing Progress (Part 2): Changing Perceptions

The second part of a feature on the Professional Footballers’ Association, drawing on conversations with Player Management staff Matthew Buck and Marie-Christine Bouchier about changing perceptions of the women’s game. Buck argues that opinion needs to catch up with reality, saying England players train, prepare and handle themselves at a level he would compare directly with male professionals, and that most are effectively professional on the strength of central and club contracts. He points to growing interaction between male and female players within the union. Both identify the media as the biggest remaining obstacle, citing appearances by Rachel Yankey, Sue Smith and Faye White but also the reluctance to let players discuss the men’s game. Bouchier notes reality television figures command higher fees, and the pair describe embarrassing outlets into matching male appearance rates.