A special screening celebrating the remarkable story of the Manchester Corinthians Ladies Football Club brought together members of the community, local leaders and football organisations to honour one of Stockport's own pioneers of women's football. 

Held at Offerton Community Centre on 9 July, the event celebrated the legacy of Myra Lypnyckyj, a former Manchester Corinthians player whose achievements helped pave the way for generations of women and girls in football. Following the screening, the newly appointed Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport joined guests to recognise Myra's contribution, with Stockport County presenting her with a signed club shirt. 

The Manchester Corinthians were formed in 1949 during a period when the Football Association's ban on women's football prevented female teams from playing on affiliated grounds. Refusing to let the restrictions stop them, the team toured internationally, competing in front of crowds of up to 65,000 people and becoming one of the most successful women's football teams of their era. 

Today, their legacy is finally receiving the recognition it deserves. A commemorative plaque has recently been unveiled at Fog Lane Park in Didsbury, the club's former home ground, honouring the Corinthians as pioneers of the women's game. The Football Association has also formally apologised to the team for the barriers they faced during the decades-long ban. 

The event showcased the award-winning documentary The Corinthians: We Were The Champions, which tells the extraordinary story of the trailblazing team and the surviving players whose determination helped shape the future of women's football. 

Alison Warwood, CEO of Stockport County Community Trust, said: 

"It was a privilege to be able to celebrate Myra Lypnyckyj's contribution to the incredible legacy of the Corinthians here in her hometown of Stockport by presenting her with a signed Stockport County shirt. 

"We were delighted to be invited to attend this special screening in Stockport and to celebrate Myra's remarkable achievements alongside the Lord Mayor. The story of the Corinthians is one of courage, determination and breaking down barriers, and it's fitting that we recognise one of our own who helped shape the history of women's football. 

"At Stockport County Community Trust, we're passionate about inspiring people through the power of sport, and we hope Myra's story encourages the next generation to believe that anything is possible." 

Tracey Neville, Managing Director of Stockport County Women FC, added: 

"Myra and the rest of the Manchester Corinthians were true pioneers for the newly launched Stockport County Women's team, breaking down barriers and inspiring generations long before women's football received the recognition it deserved. 

"Events like this are so important because they ensure these stories are never forgotten. Myra and her teammates have left a lasting legacy, and I hope their journey encourages more young people across Stockport to believe in themselves and follow their ambitions." 

The screening highlighted the importance of preserving local history and recognising those whose determination transformed the sporting landscape. Through their courage, resilience and refusal to accept exclusion, the Manchester Corinthians helped lay the foundations for the growth of women's football both in the UK and around the world. 

Stockport Homes Group was proud to support this celebration of an inspirational Stockport resident whose story continues to inspire future generations.