Strengthening support

Cliftonville Football Club were this weekend pleased to fortify our commitment to the NI Football League’s #NotInOurGame campaign.

Yesterday’s Sports Direct Premiership fixture with Dungannon Swifts was dedicated to the ongoing project aimed at tackling violence against women and using the power of football to drive positive change across society.

As well as representatives of Women’s Aid – to whom the proceeds of our Half Gate Draw were donated – Chairman Kevin Crossan was humbled to welcome the families of Jennifer Dornan, Natalie McNally and Lisa Dorrian to Solitude for the occasion and we hope they all enjoyed their day at the home of Ireland’s Oldest Football Club.

“It was a privilege to be there with the families you have brought together and it was a great day,” said Sonya McMullan of Women’s Aid.

“The Club is doing all the right things and is ahead of so many. I’ll definitely be back.”

Though she attended Solitude with more than a keen interest in developments in Glenavon’s game at Mourneview Park, Natalie McNally’s mother, Bernie, commented: “Thank you for a brilliant day. The welcome and hospitality were outstanding.

“It is so important to get the message out there that there should be no place for violence against women and girls in our society.

“Your Club should be so proud for taking a stand against ending this.”

NIFL’s #NotInOurGame initiative comes at a time when the issue remains highly prevalent, and the League is using its platform to raise awareness, encourage conversation and promote responsibility across the football community.

There is no place in society for violence again women. The NI Football League, Cliftonville FC and our fellow member Clubs stand together for change.