Born: 1905 (St. Helens, England)
Biography:
Lily Parr was an English professional women’s association football player who made a significant impact on the sport during her career. Born on April 26, 1905, in St. Helens, Parr was the fourth of seven children of George and Sarah Parr. Her father worked as a laborer at a local glass factory, and the family often rented out space in their house to supplement their income.
From a young age, Parr displayed little interest in traditional activities such as sewing and cookery. Instead, she showed a fearless streak and robust frame that allowed her to compete alongside boys in football and rugby. Under the guidance of her elder brothers, Parr became proficient in both sports and eventually played for the local team St. Helens Ladies, where she reportedly made more than 100 appearances.
Parr’s career took a significant turn when she joined the renowned Dick, Kerr’s Ladies team. Founded in 1917 and based in Preston, Lancashire, the team drew large crowds and gained widespread recognition. The team’s name was derived from the Preston munitions factory, Dick, Kerr & Co., where many of the players worked during World War I.
Known for her position as a winger, Parr’s incredible talent and dedication to the sport made her a revered figure within the women’s football community. A particular highlight of her career was a match at Goodison Park on December 26, 1920, where the Dick, Kerr’s Ladies team attracted an astonishing 53,000 spectators.
During her time at the Dick, Kerr’s Ladies, Parr shared a close bond with her teammate Alice Woods, with whom she had a romantic relationship. Their lodging in Preston further solidified their connection both on and off the field. Parr was recognized for her voracious appetite and her constant smoking of Woodbine cigarettes, characteristics that added to her larger-than-life persona.
In a time when women’s football was still navigating its place in society, Parr faced and overcame numerous challenges. She played against both male and female teams, showcasing her remarkable skills and establishing herself as one of the most formidable players of her time. Many sources claim that Parr possessed a shot even more powerful than her male counterparts, a testament to her exceptional ability and dedication.
Throughout her career, Parr’s goal-scoring prowess was undeniable. In her first year with the Dick, Kerr’s Ladies, she scored an impressive 108 goals, placing her second only to Florrie Redford. Notably, Parr’s performance on New Year’s Day in 1921, when she scored a hat-trick against a team called the Rest of Lancashire, led to her move from left-back to the left-wing position.
Parr’s contributions to women’s football continue to be celebrated, as she was regarded as a trailblazer in the sport. Her achievements garnered recognition beyond her playing years, and in 2002, she became the first woman to be inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame at the National Football Museum.
Despite facing the societal pressures and limitations of her time, Parr’s determination and passion for the game shone through. Her impact on women’s football cannot be understated, as she played a pivotal role in promoting the recognition and acceptance of women in athletics.
Awards:
– Inductee of the English Football Hall of Fame at the National Football Museum (2002)