AS PART OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, MATCHDAY GROUNDSPERSON RACHEL WOOD TALKS THROUGH HER ROLE AT THE CLUB.
What were your aspirations when you first started your career?
I wanted to find out more about how football pitches are maintained, as it is always a talking point when I’m either playing or watching football! I had aspirations to work for a Premier League club, so when the opportunity at Fulham came, I couldn’t wait to start!
How did you become interested in football?
I come from a football mad family and have grown up playing and watching football. Not being interested was never an option!
Can you tell us a little about your current role?
I work as part of the matchday groundstaff team, helping to divot and prepare the pitch before and after the game.
What attracted you to Fulham?
I wanted to be part of a professional football grounds team, and knew Fulham have a fantastic stadium with great facilities, so it was a no brainer really!
What’s your greatest Fulham moment?
My favourite moment was being part of the matchday team when Fulham Women played AFC Wimbledon Women. It was so inspiring to see the Women’s team being given the opportunity to play at the Cottage!
What has been the most difficult challenge you’ve faced in your career?
My most difficult challenge was joining the grounds team as the only girl, as I was worried about whether I would fit in. But I was made to feel welcome and part of the team as soon as I started, and now can’t wait for a matchday!
What more can we do to support women in football?
I think just keep providing women with opportunities to be involved in the game, whether that’s at grassroots level or within the professional game.
What advice would you give to women who want to work in football?
Don’t be intimidated by it being a male dominated environment. Football is more inclusive than ever before and there’s never been a better time to be involved!
Who has inspired you in your career?
I started in the industry not knowing anyone, but I would say there are many inspiring people within the teams that I work in.
What advice would you give our male colleagues who want to be supportive to women working in football?
I think just do exactly that – be supportive! Sometimes it can be daunting working in such a male dominated environment but to have support from your male colleagues can make such a difference in making you feel comfortable.
