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This week host Zoe Haydn Jones chats to Lewes Football Club Commercial Manager Stef McLoughlin and Zoe Haydn Jones - here are some key takeaways:

1. Impact of Investing in Women's Football: The growth of Lewis Football Club post-2017, when changes were made to invest in women's football, was significant. An investment of £750,000 from the Premier League for a high-quality pitch benefited both the men's and women's teams, showcasing that supporting women's sports can have a broad and inclusive impact.
2. Equality and Collective Success: The conversation highlighted the importance of not segregating by gender but working collectively. The success of the women's team led to better facilities that both the men's and women's teams could enjoy, emphasizing the shared benefits of gender equality in sports.
3. Increased Attendance and Interest: Both the men's and women's matches saw a significant increase in attendance, indicating that promoting women's sports can lead to a general rise in interest and support for the club as a whole.
4. Challenges of Implementing Equal Treatment: Overcoming initial resistance to change was a challenge when the club decided to treat men and women equally. It required a vision for the future and the ability to bring others along to that vision.
5. Representation Matters: The discussion touched on the importance of equal representation in media and marketing. The club's efforts to ensure women's teams received equal visibility on their website and in promotional materials serve as a model for how sports organizations can promote gender equality.
6. The Power of Money in Promoting Change: The club's approach to equality is not just about fairness but also smart marketing. Investing in women's sports is seen as a clever business decision that can yield a return on investment.
7. Community and International Response: Lewis Football Club received positive feedback from around the world, with international clubs showing solidarity and support for their initiatives.
8. The Role of Sports in Opportunities for Women: The podcast also touched on the broader impact of sports on providing opportunities for women, whether it's playing professionally, becoming a physio, or engaging in other related careers.
9. Advice for Supporting Women's Sports: The conversation included practical advice for listeners on how to support women's sports, such as checking for equal representation on sports teams' websites and social media.
10. Vision for the Future: The club aims to continue using its voice and resources to promote women's football and encourage others to invest in women's sports.