Julie Chipchase, a legendary figure in women's football who died in 2021, was honoured at the Eco-Power Stadium in Doncaster this week.
A portrait of Julie was unveiled inside the ground, sitting alongside an image of Doncaster Belles founder Sheila Edmunds.
Julie, affectionately known as Chippy, was a player, manager and director of football for the Belles, but her influence on the women’s and girls’ game went far beyond the club. As a coach developer for the FA for 15 years, Chippy inspired a generation of players and female coaches with her passion for the game and her belief in people's potential to achieve great things. She was dedicated to raising the profile of women’s football and is a significant individual in the history of the women’s game.
As well as unveiling the portrait, the event also launched the Julie Chipchase Coaching Legacy, which will provide financial support to females hoping to obtain coaching licences, giving them a step up the ladder on their coaching journey. It is hoped that through the legacy fund, a new generation of female coaches will emerge in her memory.
Former Lionesses Sue Smith and Ellen White were both present in Doncaster, while Sky Sports were also there to cover the event.
Michelle Slater, Equal Game Ambassador for the Derbyshire FA, wrote on LinkedIn: "What an amazing day paying tribute to a true football and coaching legend Julie Chipchase with former players, coaches, managers and those involved at this great Club Doncaster Rovers Belles.
"We remembered our dear friend, paying our respects and sharing fond memories. We unveiled her portrait which is a permanent feature at the Eco Power Stadium along with the founder of the Club Sheila Edmunds and we officially launched The Julie Chipchase Coaching Legacy."
Director of FA Education, Lucy Pearson, who also attended the event, commented: "Julie was a dedicated professional who loved helping others to succeed and was equally at home at the top of the game as she was introducing inexperienced volunteers to the craft of coaching.
"She embodied passion, warmth and expertise and always had a smile and a twinkle in her eye; she never lost sight of the fact that football is there to be enjoyed. It’s about having fun and being part of a team. She loved it and she loved the people she shared her football journey with. The Legacy is testament to her influence and impact."
