Why Did Chelsea Ladies Changed To Chelsea F.C. Women?

November 13, 2018, by Asher K

Womens Football

Why Did Chelsea Ladies Changed To Chelsea F.C. Women

With all the hype surrounding the far more mainstream and popular men’s version of the game, women’s football doesn’t get half the credit it deserves. Numerous leagues that comprise of several talented teams and players often go unnoticed.

One event in particular that went unnoticed was Chelsea Ladies Football Club officially changing their name to a more appropriate title, Chelsea Football Club Women. Established way back in 1992, the club earlier this year in 2018 swapped the rather old-fashioned term, ladies, for a more fitting one - women.

This was done with the hope to detach it from their male counterparts, who will no longer be referred to as the “first team,” according to their official website. The goal of this move seemed to establish themselves as a separate, legitimate entity who are only affiliated to men’s club, rather than just a female version of Chelsea FC.

Chelsea Woman's Football Club

The new name reportedly reflects “modern view on language and equality,” that is in line with the present day scenario, regarding feminism, equality politics, and current societal standards, in the sense that the word “lady” has drastically different connotations when compared to the word “woman.” “Lady” conveys a sense of delicacy, passivity, and daintiness, as opposed to the more masculine qualities of dominance and strength. While these qualities aren’t inherently negative, they aren’t exactly the first adjectives that pop into your head when you hear the word “football.” In a way, “Chelsea Ladies,” when compared to the men’s club, almost gives off an air of inferiority, which was very problematic, because this couldn’t be further from the truth. The club is dominating the world of women’s football, and as of now, are one of the best in the game. They have won some titles, including the WLS and the Women’s FA Cup. They are a force to be reckoned with.

The word woman on the other hand, especially in today’s modern, westernized context connotes a sense of power and strength, most certainly two words that one would associate with the club, or any women’s sports team, for that matter.

Emma Hayes

Emma Hayes, their manager, stated that this was a monumental change for them as it brings women’s football “to the front and center” of everything they do. This rebranding will hopefully inspire generations of women and girls to come.