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A Level Playing Field

A Level Playing Field

By: Cheryl Smith & Alison McConnell
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About this listen

A Podcast co-hosted by Scottish football journalists Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith.


We chat all things women's football, including the latest SWPL action, as well as hot topics from across the globe.

© 2026 A Level Playing Field
Football (American)
Episodes
  • Rose Reilly: A Pioneer’s Story of Breaking Barriers I A Level Playing Field I Episode 16
    Apr 7 2026

    This week on A Level Playing Field we’re joined by a true trailblazer of the women’s game - Rose Reilly.

    A World Cup champion, and one of Scotland’s most iconic footballing exports, Rose reflects on a remarkable career that broke boundaries across generations and continents.

    From her early days in Scotland to conquering the world stage with Italy, she shares the stories behind the headlines, the challenges, the triumphs, and the moments that defined her journey.

    We dive into how the women’s game has evolved, what still needs to change, and why the current generation should never take their platform for granted.

    Plus, Rose gives her take on today’s Scottish game and the players catching her eye.

    It’s a fascinating, honest, and inspiring conversation with a true pioneer of the sport.

    Send us Fan Mail

    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

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    47 mins
  • Sarah Rhind: Addiction, loss & the game I love I A Level Playing Field I Episode 15
    Mar 30 2026

    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.

    Get your copy HERE 👉 amzn.eu/d/06yCMlPK

    Send us Fan Mail

    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

    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • Fiona McIntyre: Setting the record straight on SWPL 'financial crisis' I A Level Playing Field I Episode 14
    Mar 23 2026

    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.

    Send us Fan Mail

    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

    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
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