CFU have supported the Amber Belles, a project started by CFU Board Members Emma Smith and Anouska Wright in April 2021 to help our female fans.
You might wonder why the group is needed at all. In the last 20-30 years, there has been a welcome increase in the number of female fans going to matches across the country. There is solid evidence that a larger female and family element within the crowd improves the matchday atmosphere. Despite this, there is still an undercurrent of sexism aimed at females who love football.
This has led to some female fans feeling unable to contribute to online chats – and that just isn’t right. The Amber Belles group offers everyone a place to chat about our wonderful club in a safe and welcoming environment.
It is also a space for supporters to bring up any female-related issues at the ground. There might be things that can be discussed openly, but there is also the chance to speak confidentially. Whatever it is, the Amber Belles will do everything they can to help.
Within a month, the group amassed over 100 members and it is continuing to grow. The Amber Belles would love to reach out to more female football fans in the Cambridge area and hope to offer a meet-and-greet and buddy system for first time visitors to the Abbey Stadium.
It’s a calm, supportive and happy group that is open to all U’s fans, regardless of gender, who support their aims.
Amber Belles pin badges are available to purchase for £3 from the CFU outlet and Club Shop. All profits will be used to support female U’s fans.
Emma is also the club’s Ambassador for Her Game Too, a campaign created to eradicate sexist abuse & discrimination towards female football fans, and to champion women’s & girls’ involvement in the game. Anouska is our HGT Advocate. Both Emma & Anouska will offer help to any U’s fans who experience sexism.
You can find the Amber Belles on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Read about the first Female Fans Forum here
