Women’s football in mid-twentieth century Brazil and France: three team managers from prohibition to profit
A summary of the research:
This article looks at the history of women's soccer in Brazil and France during the mid-20th century. It highlights how women faced bans and restrictions in both countries, often linked to societal views about gender and women's roles. In Brazil, a ban on women playing soccer lasted from 1941 to 1979 due to concerns about women's bodies and their ability to have children. France also had a shorter ban during World War II, and women struggled to gain recognition from the official football federation until the 1970s. Despite these challenges, the article discusses the crucial roles of three team managers: Carlota Rezende in Brazil, who founded Primavera Futebol Clube; Pierre Geoffroy in France, who created the Stade de Reims women's team; and Eurico Lyra Filho in Brazil, who led Esporte Clube Radar.
The stories of these managers show different paths towards the (re)construction and eventual professionalization of women's soccer. Carlota Rezende faced accusations and her club was shut down amidst moral panic and gender discrimination. Pierre Geoffroy used marketing and media to build support for women's soccer in France, eventually leading to official recognition. Eurico Lyra Filho successfully built a dominant team in Brazil after the ban was lifted, securing sponsorships and pushing for national regulation and a national team. While these leaders were sometimes controversial, their efforts were significant in developing women's soccer in their respective countries.
Here are three key takeaways:
Understanding the historical context of resistance and the long fight for legitimacy can inform current strategies for advocacy and development. Recognizing the deep-rooted societal biases and prohibitions faced by women in soccer can provide valuable perspective. This history underscores the importance of continued efforts to challenge gender stereotypes, advocate for equal opportunities, and promote the value of women's participation in the sport at all levels.
Effective leadership, while diverse in style, is crucial for building and sustaining women's soccer programs. The examples of Carlota Rezende, Pierre Geoffroy, and Eurico Lyra Filho, despite their different approaches and circumstances, all highlight the impact of a dedicated individual in creating opportunities for female players. Administrators and coaches can learn from their determination, their ability to navigate challenges (even if unsuccessfully in Carlota's case due to societal barriers), and their vision for the sport's growth.
Strategic marketing and representation that acknowledges and challenges gender norms can be a powerful tool for growth. Pierre Geoffroy's use of media and celebrity endorsements, and Eurico Lyra Filho's emphasis on the "confident" and "independent" nature of his players, demonstrate the importance of shaping public perception. Coaches and administrators can consider how they present their teams and players to the public and potential sponsors, aiming to both attract attention and challenge limiting stereotypes that have historically hindered the sport's progress.
Authors: Carmen Rial & Caroline Soares de Almeida
You can read the entire article here.
