Hi all,
Following our 2025/26 season launch, where we officially partnered with the Dale Supporters Trust,
We are currently seeking passionate fans to join our advocate team here at Rochdale, not only to help promote our message but also to ensure the matchday experience at Dale is inclusive, supportive, and welcoming for all.
We’re looking for committed individuals (aged 18 and over) who can be a point of contact in their stand on matchdays, someone fans can turn to for support or guidance and also to help us plan and deliver our annual dedicated fixture, and be part of broader efforts to promote the Her Game Too ethos across the club and community. Initially, within local grassroots ladies’ football, and to this end, HGT have signed with the Dale Supporters Trust an “Agreement of Cooperation and Support” This is an agreement which has HGT’s official approval and is endorsed by the club. See HERE
Interested? We have put together a simple “Job Description” and though not exclusive, it forms the basis for what we are looking for in an advocate. There is flexibility, though, and we would love to discuss how you think you could contribute. Have a look HERE
I’m Leanne, Co-Ambassador for Her Game Too Rochdale. I’ve always been open about my mental health journey. It’s something I’ve struggled with for many years, and like so many others, football has often been my safe space. A place to switch off and to feel part of something bigger. But I also know that for many, getting to that safe space isn’t always easy. Joining Her Game Too has helped me to keep myself busy and has also created some fantastic friendships along the way.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, confidence, or just feel unsure about coming to games, whether home or away, please let us know. We understand how daunting it can be to attend a match when you don’t have someone to go with, or when you’re feeling overwhelmed. That’s why we’re reaching out to offer support, not just in words but in action.
As part of the Her Game Too team, we are working hard to create a more inclusive, welcoming environment for every supporter. We’re incredibly grateful for the backing we’ve received from the Trust, which is helping us take real steps forward. We will be based at the Trust Desk before some games, and we invite anyone to come and see us. Whether you’ve a question, a concern, a complaint, or you just want to chat or have a mental health check-in, we’ll be there. These dates will be shared in advance, and we will alternate between Saturday matches and weeknight matches to try and facilitate for everyone.
We’re the first to acknowledge that, in the past, things haven’t always been where they should be. That’s why we’re committed to doing better. To listen more, learning more, and do more. This new partnership with The Trust is giving us the opportunity to really make a difference, and we know we need to earn the trust and support of our fellow fans. We’re ready to do that. We hope that, in time, our actions will speak for themselves and demonstrate our seriousness about making this work.
We’ve seen comments online like, “There’s no sexism at Dale,” or “Why is this even needed?” And to be honest, those comments are exactly why initiatives like Her Game Too are vital. Just because you haven’t seen it, doesn’t mean it isn’t happening. Dismissing the lived experiences of others only contributes to the problem. Instead of pushing back, we’d love to invite those who feel this way to come and speak with us without judgment, offering a genuine opportunity to learn, reflect, and understand why this matters.
At its core, this is about creating a community where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued. Football should be for everyone. To quote the Trust’s partners at Birmingham City Women’s Football Support Group, “Football Without Fans Is Nothing”, and with your help, we can make that a reality for everyone at Rochdale.
Charlotte, my fellow Co-Ambassador, shares that same passion:
“Similar to Leanne, I also struggle with my mental health and the campaign has been a huge positive a long side football to help keep my mind occupied. Being a single parent can be extremely hands on but then once the kids are asleep, that’s when I often struggle but helping being part of something amazing that we can drive for the club we love but also paving the way for inclusion and ‘the normal’ for the future generation is something we are so passionate about. I genuinely wish when I was growing up we had the support like this, so being able to help inspire the next generation of female fans to be comfortable at a men’s football game and feel valued as well as hopefully growing the female fan base too is incredible. We would really love your support and help to drive it. The last few years has been a struggle due to our own fault and also difficulties behind the scenes at the club, so we want to prove ourselves and make positive changes for the club we all love!”
Please don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you want to get involved, ask questions, share your story, or just find a friendly face on matchday we’re here. We’re listening. And we’d love to meet you.
Charlotte Cromarty and Leanne Connolly
Ambassadors-HGT-Rochdale
