Liverpool's Aurélie Csillag Champions Diversity in Women's Football 2026

Liverpool forward Aurélie Csillag is spearheading a new initiative called Beyond the Goalposts to make women's football more diverse. The program, launched by the club's foundation, aims to provide pathways and opportunities for black and marginalised girls and women in football, both on and off the pitch.

Csillag, a 23-year-old Switzerland international, recently spoke about her motivation: "When I was young I never had a role model. I only watched men's football, but when women's football got bigger there were no really good black players. I also want to be a role model for the next generation." Her personal experience drives her commitment to this cause.

Why Diversity in Women's Football Matters

Women's football has grown exponentially in recent years, but diversity at the top levels remains a concern. According to a 2023 report by the Football Association, only 10% of professional women's players in England are from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic backgrounds. This lack of representation can discourage young girls from marginalised communities from pursuing the sport.

Beyond the Goalposts seeks to address this by creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment. The program offers sessions that include educational and mentoring help, with experts and players assisting on-pitch sessions and providing support to participants. Sessions begin on 1 October, but people can register their interest at any time.

Aurélie Csillag: A Role Model in the Making

Csillag's journey to becoming a role model herself is inspiring. She reached out to the foundation upon hearing about the program. "I wanted to support it because it is an important topic for me in football," she says. "I was really surprised, I was so happy that such a big club thinks about things like this. We can improve women's football for black people. I was very excited Liverpool were doing this and I was proud I am a part of a club that is aware of this issue."

Her involvement goes beyond just lending her name. Csillag actively participates in sessions, mentoring young girls and sharing her experiences. She believes that visibility starts at the top, and having diverse role models can inspire the next generation.

The Impact of Beyond the Goalposts

The program focuses on leadership, mentoring, health, and wellbeing. It aims to equip participants with skills that extend beyond football, preparing them for various careers in the sports industry. By partnering with experts, Liverpool's foundation ensures that participants receive holistic support.

Early registration numbers are promising, with over 200 girls signing up within the first week. The club hopes to expand the program in the coming years, potentially rolling it out to other regions.

Key Takeaways

• Beyond the Goalposts is a Liverpool FC foundation initiative to increase diversity in women's football.
• Aurélie Csillag is a key ambassador, driven by her own lack of role models growing up.
• The program offers mentoring, education, and on-pitch sessions for black and marginalised girls and women.
• Sessions start on 1 October, with registration open year-round.
• The initiative aims to create lasting change by providing pathways both on and off the pitch.

FAQ

What is Beyond the Goalposts?

Beyond the Goalposts is a program launched by Liverpool FC's foundation to provide pathways and opportunities for black and marginalised girls and women in football. It offers sessions on leadership, mentoring, health, and wellbeing.

Who is Aurélie Csillag?

Aurélie Csillag is a forward for Liverpool FC Women and the Switzerland national team. She is a key ambassador for Beyond the Goalposts, advocating for greater diversity in women's football.

How can I get involved in Beyond the Goalposts?

You can register your interest at any time through Liverpool FC's foundation. Sessions begin on 1 October and are open to black and marginalised girls and women in the Liverpool community.

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