They Kick: Bristol Academy and Birmingham City LFC fan features

The They Kick slot checks in with the Birmingham City LFC Supporters Club, formed in 2011 as one of the first official supporters clubs for a women’s team in England, set up to help fans reach home and away games through car sharing while promoting the club and the sport. Chairman Mark Farnell answers, describing the regular newsletter Blue Sunday, members following England to Germany in 2011 and London in 2012, and the Blues Ladies flag hanging in stadiums wherever the Lionesses play. He names chief executive Steve Shipway as Mr Birmingham City Ladies but insists the club is a team effort across staff and coaches, and stresses its family feel. At least two members have attended every game since the WSL began, including trips to Italy, Finland and Russia. His favourite memory is winning the FA Cup in 2012 at Ashton Gate, and he looks ahead to the Champions League tie with Arsenal.