Hundreds of thousands of fans tuned into watch England qualify for their first FIFA Women’s World Cup in 12 years on Saturday - now team manager Hope Powell is calling on girls and women to take to the pitch themselves.

After hosting the UEFA European Women’s Championship Finals last year, women’s football has increased in profile and playing figures in girls’ football increased, specifically in the North West where the tournament was held. The World Cup is expected to give a similar showcase for Powell’s side.

"Qualifying for the World Cup will give a huge boost to the women’s game in England," explained Powell. "The team are already much more recognised after EURO 2005, but being at a World Cup will give an added interest. I’m sure young girls watching the team now and who are not already involved in a club, will be keen to get out there and play themselves.

"Women’s football is now not only the fastest growing sport in the country, but football is now the top female sport too. It is a very exciting time to be involved in the women’s game, which can bring many health benefits for a player as well as making new friends."

There are opportunities for everyone to play the national game, whatever their age, gender, ability, race, culture or background. There are different forms of football from the Small-Sided game, such as Mini Soccer for those under-11 taking their first steps in the game, to Futsal and the hugely popular five-a-side, to the more traditional 11-a-side game.

However you choose to enjoy playing football, there are 8,000 female teams across England providing opportunities in every community.

For the most talented players, there is a player pathway in place – a pyramid of participation identifying the key elements needed in foundation, through participation and performance to drive excellence at the top of the pathway. This pathway ensures that talented players are given the very best opportunities and support to reach their full potential, which at the elite end may mean playing top domestic football and even representing England.

England winger Karen Carney, who has starred in the team’s unbeaten run in qualifying over the past year, took every step on that pyramid from Mini-Soccer to the England teams and currently is in her third scholarship year at The FA’s National Player Development Centre at Loughborough University.

Why not take your first step in football? Check out the Find a Club locator and contact a club near you, or if you would like some more advice contact the Football Development Team at your local County Football Association.