The BBC World Service has launched the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year competition – a first of its kind competition hosted by a global broadcaster.
The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award will celebrate the top female footballers currently competing in one of world’s fastest growing sports.
A panel of experts – including administrators, journalists, coaches and former players – have come together to determine a five-woman shortlist, and football fans around the world will soon have the unique opportunity to vote for their winner.
The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award was announced during this month’s edition of Canada Calling on Sportsworld. Broadcasting live on BBC World Service radio each month, Canada Calling features women’s football news and views from across the globe ahead of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada.
Mary Hockaday, Controller of BBC World Service English, says: “2015 is a huge year for women’s football. We are about to see the biggest ever FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada this summer, making 2015 the perfect time to launch the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year. I’m proud that BBC World Service is committed to covering women’s sport. This new award will showcase some of the best female football stars to further engage and inspire people about the women’s game.”
Caroline Rigby, Managing Editor of the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year, said: “This award is a great opportunity to highlight the incredible skill level and depth of talent that exists in women’s football globally. It will demonstrate how far the game has come in recent years and will enable supporters to introduce the best players in the world to new fans.”
The shortlisted players, and details on how to vote, will be revealed on Sunday 26 April, and the winner will be announced in late May.
For further information about the award, visit: http://bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31863555
