In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Sarah Rhind to explore the powerful story behind her book Scars Under the Jersey: Addiction, Loss and the Game I Love.

Sarah speaks openly about her journey through recovery, the grip of addiction, and the lasting impact of grief after personal loss. It’s an honest and emotional conversation about rebuilding your life when everything has been stripped back and the strength it takes to keep going.

We also dive into her connection with Street Soccer, representing Scotland at the Homeless World Cup, and how the game became a lifeline during some of her darkest moments.

From there, Sarah reflects on her return to the professional game with Hamilton Accies Women in the Scottish Women's Premier League and what football means to her now.

We also talk about the process of writing the book, why she felt ready to share her story, and the hope it can give to others facing similar battles.

This is a raw, inspiring and ultimately uplifting episode about recovery, resilience, and finding purpose through football.

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In this week’s episode, we’re joined by SWPL Managing Director Fiona McIntyre for an in-depth and honest conversation about the state of the women’s game in Scotland.

Fiona lifts the lid on what her role really involves behind the scenes, the biggest challenges she’s faced since taking charge, and the ongoing effort to grow the league’s visibility and get more fans through the turnstiles.

We also tackle the recent headlines around a reported financial crisis in the SWPL and hear directly from Fiona on why she strongly disputes that narrative.

There’s also a brilliant look back at the league’s dramatic title run-ins, including the extraordinary story of trophy day going down to the wire and the trophy ending up in the back of a taxi.

Plus, we preview a huge weekend for the domestic game as Glasgow City take on Rangers in the Sky Sports Cup Final, with insight on what it means for both clubs and the wider league.

It’s a candid, insightful, and at times surprising chat that gives a real sense of where the SWPL is right now and where it’s heading.

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Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!

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In this episode, we’re joined by the Head of Refereeing at the Scottish FA, Willie Collum, for an honest and insightful conversation about the future of female referees in Scotland.

Willie discusses the growing presence of women in officiating and the clear ambition to see female referees regularly taking charge of top-flight men’s matches.

He opens up on areas the game isn’t talking about enough, including how referees manage training during the menstrual cycle and the challenges of returning to elite fitness after pregnancy.

The conversation also tackles one of the biggest barriers facing female officials: the demands of the fitness tests.

Alongside this, Willie reflects on his own journey in refereeing, sharing both the highs and the lows from his time on the pitch, offering a rare and personal perspective on the pressures of the role.

Finally, he outlines his vision for the future and the practical steps being taken to attract, support, and retain more women in refereeing at every level of the game.

A candid, forward-thinking discussion on breaking barriers and building the next generation of officials.

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In partnership with Zenith Coins.

Support the show

Join A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith!

Chat to your hosts on X HERE:

@alibali76 @JournoCherylS