Teenage girls enjoying their favourite sport are increasingly facing catcalls and inappropriate attention from men, according to Daisey Cotterill, founder of Any Girl Netball, a women’s and girls' club in Sandwell.
Ms Cotterill reveals that girls as young as 14 are often catcalled or approached by men in cars while walking or even during their games at a local leisure centre. In some cases, players have been subjected to men winking at and watching them while they participate.
She emphasised that such behaviour is completely unacceptable and has a terrifying impact on the young players, yet it appears to have become normalised in the community.
Established to provide free netball and multisport activities to girls across Sandwell and the West Midlands, Any Girl Netball aims to offer a safe and supportive environment.
“Our girls are increasingly reporting feelings of fear and intimidation due to men who believe it is acceptable to catcall or approach them,” said Ms Cotterill.
She made these remarks during the ‘Reclaim the Valley’ walk at Sandwell Valley Country Park. The event followed a disturbing daytime sexual assault on Amanda Quiney, a 28-year-old woman from Tipton, which has raised serious concerns about safety in the area.
“At Any Girl Netball, we’ve developed a space where our girls feel able to talk openly about their experiences. Unfortunately, many have reported sexual harassment, whether walking home or through the town centre. Men have pulled up alongside them in cars or made inappropriate gestures at leisure centres.,” Ms Cotterill added.
“It’s frightening to think these girls are just 14 years old. This sort of behaviour has become worryingly accepted, and we need events like this to send the clear message that it’s not acceptable. Women and girls' safety must be a priority for all of us.”
The founder noted that safe spaces are particularly crucial for girls in areas with higher crime rates. “We know that in places facing greater deprivation, risks increase. Providing safe environments for sport and friendship is essential.”
The ‘Reclaim the Valley’ event was organised by West Bromwich MP Sarah Coombes to address violence and antisocial behaviour in parks and public spaces, which leave families and women fearful.
Coombes spoke about the community’s shock following the attack on Amanda Quiney, who was assaulted and knocked unconscious on a quiet park path on 29 June. Police suspect she was raped and are seeking the attacker.
Coombes described Sandwell Valley Country Park as “a jewel in the crown” of the region and acknowledged that the attack had unsettled many who use the park regularly.
“I live nearby and often walk or run alone here, so I understand the concerns people feel. After the incident, I organised community events to work towards restoring a sense of safety and wellbeing. No one should feel afraid to visit the park,” she said.
The event brought together West Midlands Police, Sandwell Council environmental officers, community safety advocates, park rangers, and groups such as Black Country Women’s Aid.
Coombes also thanked the men attending, emphasising the importance of their support in tackling sexual violence against women.
“We cannot solve this problem without men standing with us,” she concluded.