The Adobe Women’s FA Cup is powered by the communities, clubs and people who show up for the game at every level. What happens on our biggest stage at Wembley this weekend is only possible because of what happens in every round in the lead up.
Our short series, The Communities Cup, celebrates the stories behind the tournament – the volunteers, fans and local heroes whose passion and commitment help make the Adobe Women’s FA Cup what it is today.
Family
Hazzana Parnell and Remaya Osbourne's story marked a unique moment in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup this season. Playing for Hednesford Town, mother ‘Haz’, assisted her daughter, Remaya to score in their first round qualifying game. The game has brought the entire family even closer together, creating history across generations.
The Jones family - Ashley, Elise and Duncan - also reflect the strength family bonds hold within the Women’s FA Cup. The game brought the family together through difficult times, with their success on the pitch creating pockets of joy and a special milestone in their club’s history.
Dedication to the game
Behind every moment are people who volunteer their time, energy and passion to the game.
People like Judith Hughes are the foundation of the women’s game. From beginning her playing career in 1976 to becoming one of the first women to earn her FA coaching badges in 1987, Judith’s impact on the game has spanned generations. Now a director at her beloved FC St Helens, her passion and dedication continue to inspire both on and off the pitch.
Tom Elliott epitomises the community behind grassroots football. Without people like Tom’s unwavering commitment behind the scenes at AFC Fylde over eleven years, the club wouldn’t be where it is today. Tom’s favourite moment this season saw AFC Fylde beat Kidderminster in the Second Round as he stood in the stands supporting the team.
Fans like Aaran Johnson bring colour, passion and atmosphere to everywhere they go. Home and away, Aaran follows Liverpool with handmade banners. Fans like Aaran reflect the shared experiences and community spirit that the Adobe Women’s FA Cup is built on.
Sacrifices
The Adobe Women’s FA Cup is shaped by the sacrifices people make for the game they love.
Simone Eligon’s dedication and determination was a crucial part of Chatham Town’s journey this season. Saving penalties to win the shootout against AFC Wimbledon in the first round, Simone helped propel her team to go further than ever before – all whilst sacrificing playing for her national team.
AFC Bournemouth captain, Abby Jones, continues to make an impact both on and off the pitch. In addition to leading the team to the fourth round to play against Manchester City this season, Abby gives her time to inspire young people and create opportunities within the community.
Similarly, Anna O’Leary’s dedication led her to balance achieving a first-class postgraduate degree from Oxford University with playing for Oxford City. Missing her graduation to play in their match against Swindon Town, Anna reflects the commitment shown by players throughout the competition.
