E.ON Next and Nottingham Forest FC Give Girls the Ultimate Matchday Experience at the City Ground

The experience builds on E.ON's Women in Sport initiative, which is focused on increasing opportunities for women and girls to participate, develop and succeed in sport. Together with E.ON's long-standing support of Nottingham Forest Women’s Football and Netball Teams and the England Senior Women's football team, the initiative reflects the company's commitment to helping create a more inclusive and accessible sporting landscape for future generations.

The event gave girls' teams a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the matchday journey usually reserved for professional players – from walking out of the tunnel to competing on the famous City Ground turf.

Designed to inspire confidence, ambition and participation, the experience showcased the important role sport can play in empowering young women and girls. It also reflects E.ON Next's commitment to creating a fairer and more inclusive future, using the power of sport to drive positive social impact within local communities.

For the players, the day was about much more than football. It was an opportunity to make memories, build self-belief and see first-hand that sport is a place where everyone belongs.

As they emerged from the tunnel, heard their names announced and played in front of family, friends and coaches, participants experienced the excitement, pride and sense of possibility that comes from stepping onto a Premier League stage.

The event reflects the growing momentum behind the women's and girls' game, helping ensure young players can access experiences that inspire long-term participation in football and demonstrate that pathways in sport are open to everyone.

Scott Somerville, Director of External Affairs at E.ON UK, said:

"The skills developed through sport – teamwork, communication, resilience and confidence – are the same qualities that help people succeed in their careers and in life.

"Through our Women in Sport initiative, we're committed to creating opportunities that help women and girls build those skills, raise their aspirations and realise their potential. This experience is a fantastic example of that in action."

Jordan X, Schools Manager, Nottingham Forest Community Trust, said:

"The excitement on the players' faces from the moment they arrived at the City Ground was incredible to see. Opportunities like this leave a lasting impression, creating memories that young people will carry with them long after the final whistle.

"We're proud to work alongside E.ON Next and Nottingham Forest to bring the girls' game to the forefront and provide experiences that celebrate participation, enjoyment and ambition."

Mr Shaw, Crabtree Farm Primary School, said:

"For many of our pupils, this was the opportunity of a lifetime. To play on the same pitch as their footballing heroes created a real sense of excitement, pride and belief.

"The experience wasn't just about football; it was about confidence, teamwork and showing our girls what they can achieve when given the opportunity. Events like this can have a lasting impact, and we're incredibly grateful to E.ON Next, Nottingham Forest and Nottingham Forest Community Trust for making it happen."

Through its partnership with Nottingham Forest and Nottingham Forest Community Trust, E.ON Next continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting local communities, promoting inclusion and helping young people thrive both on and off the pitch.