Csillag's mission for diversity

Liverpool forward Aurélie Csillag grew up without black role models in football. Now the Swiss international is helping launch Beyond the Goalposts to create pathways for black and marginalised girls.

“When I was young I never had a role model. I only watched men's football.”

What Beyond the Goalposts offers

The Liverpool foundation programme launches October 1st with sessions on leadership, mentoring, health and wellbeing. It includes on-pitch training, off-pitch career guidance, and activities at Anfield match days.

The research behind the need

Liverpool's research found girls as young as five feel they don't belong in sport. Despite 60% of black girls wanting to be elite athletes, they're the least active group in England.

Identity and confidence barriers

One in two black girls feel they need to play down their cultural identity. Csillag recalls losing confidence when she was the only black player on her team with a different body structure.

“Why am I so tall? Why are my thighs so big? Why is this different?”

Progress in the national team

Switzerland's women's team now has four black players, up from one or two five years ago. Csillag sees this visibility as crucial for showing young girls that elite football is possible for them.

Leadership starts at the top

Csillag emphasises that black people need to be visible in staff and leadership roles. Without seeing people who look like them in positions of power, young girls can't imagine reaching those heights.

“Visibility starts at the top.”

Expanding beyond Liverpool

The programme currently runs in Liverpool but the club plans to expand it. Liverpool is also encouraging other sports organisations to adopt similar diversity initiatives.

Creating belonging in football

Csillag's vision is simple: everyone should feel football is a place for them. Beyond the Goalposts builds confidence, creates opportunities, and shows the diversity that makes the game stronger.

“Everyone should feel that football is a place for them.”