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Helen Hardy’s obsession with football started at the same time as Euro ’96 – and continued throughout her childhood, as she’d go along to St James’ Park to watch Newcastle United in action.

She played at primary school and intended to keep going until – as for so many girls – the game was taken away from her at secondary school, and just staying involved with football became so much harder, for no reason whatsoever.

Her determination to get back into football – and to allow other women to do the same – is what led Helen to found Manchester Laces – the city’s first-ever inclusive women’s and non-binary football club.

And honestly, this conversation is an absolute joy with someone who lives and breathes the beautiful game. From Helen’s own experiences growing up to the ethos behind the Laces, just sit back and listen to a fantastic guest with a brilliant, brilliant story to tell.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS?
@helenfootball
@manchesterlaces
manchesterlaces.co.uk

WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH THE PODCAST?
@jack_murley
jack.murley@bbc.co.uk