As the European Champion Lionesses gear up to play in Dublin for the first time in 37 years, the spotlight shines on Kerry Davis, a trailblazer in women's football. Davis, the last goalscorer in the city during England's match against the Republic of Ireland in 1987, is being recognized for her legacy.
Davis, born in Stoke-on-Trent to a Jamaican father and English mother, made history as the first Black woman to play for England in 1982 while representing Crewe Alexandra Ladies. Her remarkable career includes scoring for England against Denmark in the semi-final of the inaugural women's European championships, becoming the first Black player to score for England at a major tournament.
With 82 appearances for her country, Davis scored 44 goals, setting a record as England's all-time leading female goalscorer at the international level until 2012. Despite facing challenges and limited media coverage in the 1980s, Davis persevered, highlighting the disparities in women's sports coverage.
After impressing in a tournament in Italy, Davis attracted interest from professional clubs and eventually signed with S.S. Lazio, marking the first time she earned a wage for playing football. Her dedication to the sport, balancing her playing career with a job at a sports center, exemplifies her passion and commitment.
Recently honored at the Football Black List awards for her lifetime achievements, Davis received the Keith Alexander Award for her pioneering role in women's football. The recognition underscores her impact as a role model for Black women in the sport, inspiring future generations to pursue opportunities both on and off the pitch.
As the football community celebrates Davis's contributions, there is a call for greater diversity and inclusion in the sport, emphasizing the need for more Black women to be involved across all aspects of football. Davis's legacy serves as a beacon of progress, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative future in women's football.
