This year saw the inaugural Cherry Godfrey Cup kick off as the first all-female, four-island football tournament. The exciting two-day competition saw the Isle of Man take home the silverware, asthe sheer numbers filing stadium showed what amazing support the game has across all our local communities. The encouragement from everyone - from those in the stands to the brilliant press coverage the games received - was overwhelming and Cherry Godfrey extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone involved.
Now we’re looking forward. The tournament is set to be a biennial event, so the preparations for an even bigger one in two years’ time have already begun. But why don’t we also take a moment to look back? We’d like to explain why this new tradition means so much to the Cherry Godfrey team, because the Cherry Godfrey Cup is more than just a trophy; it’s a new chapter in a story being written about the resilience, progress and unyielding spirit of women in sport. Its history, intertwined with that of women’s football, reflects more than a century-long struggle for equality and recognition.
During World War I, women’s football emerged as a powerful force. With men away at war, women not only filled the workplaces but also took to the football pitch, dazzling crowds with their talent and drawing immense public interest. For a moment, women’s football flourished. However, mid-twentieth century societal norms reasserted themselves when men returned, and, in 1921, the Football Association banned women’s matches. The official reasons cited were vague health concerns, but the reality was clear: women’s football was seen as a threat to the male-dominated sport.
The ban stifled progress for decades. When it was finally lifted in the 1970s, women’s football faced an uphill battle to rebuild. Infrastructure, funding, and societal attitudes remained significant obstacles. Referees, who were integral to legitimising matches, were particularly resistant. In Guernsey, where Cherry Godfrey’s roots lie, our founder and CEO David Cherry’s father changed that narrative. Breaking ranks with his peers, he became the first referee to officiate a women’s football match, marking a pivotal moment in local sports history.
His father’s bold step left an indelible mark on David Cherry. For the company, his father’s action represents a core value: the belief in challenging barriers and supporting initiatives that champion inclusivity. The Cherry Godfrey Cup, therefore, is not just about football - it’s about something bigger. It’s about honouring the women who defied societal expectations, the pioneers who persisted despite systemic discrimination, and individuals like David’s father, who took a stand for change.
In 2024, women’s football enjoys unprecedented popularity and respect. The World Cup, domestic leagues and grassroots initiatives showcase the immense talent and passion of female athletes. But this progress has not come without a struggle; one that is crucially still not over, as an imbalance remains between the men’s and women’s games. The Cherry Godfrey Cup serves as a reminder of the journey so far and celebrates the players pushing forward on the pitch today.
Supporting the Cherry Godfrey Cup is a way for the company to actively contribute to the ongoing evolution of women’s sport. It’s a celebration of skill, determination, and resilience, but it’s also a message: progress requires champions. By investing in women’s football, Cherry Godfrey affirms its commitment to levelling the playing field.
The cup isn’t just a piece of silverware; it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when a community comes together to celebrate its talent. For Cherry Godfrey, it’s not merely sponsorship; it’s part of an ongoing dedication to the communities that it serves and to ensure that history inspires future generations to keep moving forward. Through this cup, Cherry Godfrey honours the past, celebrates the present, and invests in the future.
