Former West Ham United women’s team captain, Gilly Flaherty, has been rightfully inducted into the prestigious Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) Hall of Fame, a monumental achievement that highlights her extraordinary career in women’s football. Flaherty, who served as the heartbeat and leader of the West Ham women’s team for four years, was a dominant and inspirational figure both on and off the pitch. Her addition to the Barclays WSL Hall of Fame came after careful deliberation by a selection panel made up of esteemed former players, coaches, officials, journalists, and influential figures within the women’s game. Their decision to honor Flaherty with this accolade reflects not only her exceptional talent but also the profound impact she has had on the sport.
Gilly Flaherty’s journey in football is one marked by consistency, leadership, and unmatched skill. Having worn the captain’s armband for West Ham United for a solid four years, she became the cornerstone of the team’s defense and a true symbol of resilience. Her leadership was pivotal in shaping the women’s team’s identity and success, both domestically and on the European stage. Under her captaincy, Flaherty guided the team through numerous challenges and triumphs, most notably leading them to a historic appearance in the Women’s FA Cup final in 2019. This was a defining moment for both her and the club, showcasing Flaherty’s unshakable determination and her ability to inspire her teammates during crucial moments.
Before becoming the first player in West Ham history to make over 100 professional appearances, Flaherty’s footballing roots were firmly planted in the heart of the women’s game. Her early years saw her rise through the ranks of Millwall Lionesses, where she began to establish her name as a formidable defender. It wasn’t long before her talents caught the eye of one of the biggest clubs in women’s football, and in 2003, she joined Arsenal. Over the course of a decade with the Gunners, Flaherty became an integral part of the squad, winning 17 major trophies, including five Women’s FA Cups and two WSL titles, cementing her legacy as one of the game’s most successful and decorated players.
Flaherty’s move to Chelsea in 2014 marked the beginning of another golden chapter in her career. There, she continued her winning ways, contributing to the Blues’ success with two Women’s FA Cups and three league titles, including the Spring Series. Her time with Chelsea further solidified her status as one of the best defenders in the league, and her leadership qualities were on full display as she helped guide the team to continued dominance in English women’s football.
After leaving West Ham in the summer of 2022, Flaherty decided to retire from professional football, ending a glittering career that spanned over two decades. Although she no longer plays, Flaherty remains an influential figure in the women’s game, regularly contributing to media duties and sharing her insight and experiences with a new generation of footballers and fans.
The induction ceremony for Gilly Flaherty into the Barclays WSL Hall of Fame is set to take place at a special celebration event in January 2025, where her contributions to the sport will be honored and celebrated by her peers, colleagues, and fans alike. The West Ham United women’s team and its supporters are incredibly proud of her achievements, and the entire club extends its heartfelt congratulations to Flaherty for this well-deserved recognition of her incredible impact on women’s football. Through her hard work, passion, and leadership, Gilly Flaherty has left an indelible mark on the history of the Barclays WSL and on the hearts of all who have watched her play.
