Norwich City sporting director Stuart Webber remarkably admits women’s football ‘doesn’t interest me’ and says he’s only ever watched one game but he ‘thinks that’s OK’ as a choice
The world of football is abuzz with excitement, but amidst all the enthusiasm, a surprising admission has come to light. Stuart Webber, the sporting director of Norwich City, has openly confessed that he doesn’t watch women’s football, despite the club’s significant investment in the women’s team. This revelation has sparked a debate about the sport, its fans, and the people who run the clubs. As someone who has been at the helm of Norwich City since 2017, Webber’s admission has left many wondering why someone in his position wouldn’t be interested in the women’s game. The club’s women’s team, formerly run by volunteers, was formally integrated into the club in February 2022, and since then, they have been working closely with Webber to improve their performance.
The women’s team has been making waves in the FA Women’s National League Division One South East, the fourth tier of women’s football, and has even played some of their home games at The Nest, a stadium that has become their own. However, it wasn’t until April this year that the team got the chance to play at Carrow Road, the home stadium of the men’s team, where they beat Ashford Town 5-3 in front of 7,585 fans. Webber was present at the game, which marked his first experience of watching women’s football live. Although he enjoyed the atmosphere and the enthusiasm of the crowd, he still maintains that women’s football is not something that interests him. In an interview, Webber said that he thinks it’s okay for people not to take an interest in women’s football, and he doesn’t mind admitting that he doesn’t watch it. He loves working with Flo Allen, the general manager of the women’s team, but that’s because of their personal relationship rather than any interest in the women’s game itself.
Webber’s admission has sparked a mix of reactions from fans and pundits. Some have criticized him for not taking an interest in the women’s team, while others have applauded him for being honest about his preferences. Webber has been under fire for the lackluster performance of the men’s Championship team, and some have questioned his commitment to the women’s team. However, he has emphasized that he is committed to supporting the women’s team and helping them grow, even if he doesn’t personally watch their games. In fact, the club plans to host two women’s games at Carrow Road next season, which is a step in the right direction. Webber’s son, who attended the game against Ashford Town, enjoyed the friendly atmosphere, and Webber himself acknowledged that the game brought a new fanbase to the stadium.
The debate surrounding Webber’s admission highlights the complexities of football and its various stakeholders. While some people are passionate about the women’s game, others may not be as interested. However, as someone in a position of power, Webber’s admission has implications for the women’s team and the sport as a whole. His lack of interest in women’s football may be seen as a reflection of the broader societal attitudes towards the sport, which often struggle to gain the same level of recognition and attention as men’s football. Nevertheless, Webber’s support for the women’s team, even if it’s not from a personal interest, is crucial for their growth and development. The women’s team finished the season in fourth place and will remain in the FA Women’s National League Division One South East next season, and with Webber’s backing, they may be able to attract more fans and support in the future.
The story of Norwich City’s women’s team is one of perseverance and passion. The team is made up of players who balance their love of the game with their day jobs, and their dedication to the sport is inspiring. Webber’s comment about the players being able to live their dream and run out in front of a crowd like heroes is a testament to the impact that football can have on people’s lives. The fact that the team was able to play at Carrow Road and attract such a large crowd is a significant milestone, and it highlights the potential for growth and development in the women’s game. As the sport continues to evolve, it’s essential to recognize the value and worth of the women’s game, even if it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.
In conclusion, Stuart Webber’s admission about not watching women’s football has sparked an important conversation about the sport and its stakeholders. While his lack of interest may be disappointing to some, his support for the women’s team and his commitment to helping them grow are crucial for their success. The story of Norwich City’s women’s team is a testament to the power of football to inspire and bring people together, and as the sport continues to grow and evolve, it’s essential to recognize the value and worth of the women’s game. Whether or not Webber watches women’s football, his role in supporting the team and helping them achieve their goals is vital, and his admission has highlighted the complexities and challenges of football, both on and off the pitch. As the women’s team looks to the future, they can take heart from the fact that they have a dedicated fanbase and a club that is committed to their growth and development, even if it’s not always from a personal interest.
