Football’s transgender pioneer to give University lecture

The first openly transgender woman to work in Premier League football will be speaking at a public event at the University of Reading on Tuesday 27 February, as part of the University’s LGBTQIA+ History Month activities.

Dr Sophie Cook will speak about diversity, inclusion and mental health at this year’s Wolfenden Lecture, taking place on Whiteknights campus, 5.30-7pm.

Dr Cook began her career as an RAF jet engine technician before becoming a sports and music photographer.

It was while working as the in-house club photographer for AFC Bournemouth in 2015 that she made history by coming out as a trans woman, becoming the first openly transgender person to work in top flight football in England.

She went on to organise a charity exhibition match against a team of ex-pros as player-manager of the inclusive mixed gender Rainbow Rovers FC, and worked with Brighton club Whitehawk FC as the team’s diversity and inclusion officer. In 2020, she won Outstanding Contribution to LGBT+ Life at the British LGBT Awards.

Dr Cook is now a campaigner and motivational speaker, sharing her life story and educating audiences on diversity, inclusion and mental health.

The Wolfenden Lecture is named to honour former Vice-Chancellor Lord Wolfenden. He chaired the Committee whose 1957 report to Parliament played a key role in decriminalising homosexuality in England and Wales.

The 2024 Wolfenden Lecture with Dr Sophie Cook takes place in the Edith Morley G27 Lecture Theatre, 5.30-7pm on Tuesday 27 February. The event is free and open to all, but registration is required.

See the calendar for other LGBTQIA+ History Month events at the University.