The ELFA (English Ladies Football Association) and the ELFA Cup represent a brief but significant chapter in the history of women’s football in England. Founded in 1921, the ELFA aimed to provide a structured platform for women’s football in the country, organising leagues, tournaments, and other events to promote the sport among women of all ages and backgrounds.
The ELFA Cup, introduced as a premier competition by the association, quickly gained traction and captured the imagination of fans across the nation. In its inaugural season, an impressive 24 teams entered the competition, showcasing the widespread interest and enthusiasm for women’s football.
The first and only ELFA Challenge Cup saw fierce competition among the participating teams, with Stoke Ladies emerging as the victors. Their triumph not only secured them the prestigious title but also cemented their place in history as the inaugural winners of the ELFA Cup. They sealed their victory by defeating Doncaster and Bentley Ladies 3–1 in a thrilling final held on 24 June 1922.
However, despite its promising start, the ELFA and the ELFA Cup faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to their demise. These obstacles included a lack of infrastructure, limited opportunities for competitive play, and institutional opposition, notably culminating in the Football Association’s ban on women’s football in 1921.
