A special screening of The Corinthians: We Were The Champions has brought the community together to celebrate the remarkable story of football pioneer Myra Lypnyckyj as part of Offerton Park Estate’s 60 year celebrations.
Held at Offerton Community Centre, the event recognised Myra’s extraordinary contribution to women’s football and her continuing connection to the local community. Now living in Offerton, Myra remains an active member of community life and regularly attends tea dances and community events in the area.
The documentary tells the story of The Corinthians Ladies FC, a trailblazing team from Manchester who defied the Football Association’s 50 year ban on women’s football and went on to achieve international success.
Myra played for The Corinthians Ladies FC from the 1950s into the 1960s, travelling with the team and taking part in matches at home and overseas at a time when women’s football in England was still banned from Football Association grounds. The Corinthians went on to achieve huge success, including winning the European Cup, and became one of the best known women’s sides of its era, helping keep the game alive and showing the talent, commitment and love of football that existed despite the barriers placed in their way.
In March 2026, the Football Association issued an apology for the ban on women’s football, which was introduced in 1921 and not lifted until 1971, following a campaign to recognise the Corinthians place in sporting history. In the documentary, Myra reflects on what that apology meant, while making clear that for her and her teammates, the motivation had always been simple: they just wanted to play football.
Councillor Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Public Protection at Stockport Council, said:
“Myra’s story is one that Stockport should be incredibly proud of. As part of Offerton Park Estate’s 60 year celebrations, this screening was an opportunity to recognise not only a sporting pioneer, but also a valued member of the Offerton community who continues to be actively involved in local life today.
“The story is one of courage, determination and resilience, and it is wonderful that residents were able to come together to celebrate one of Stockport’s own and the lasting impact she has had both on and off the pitch.”
Residents, community groups and partners attended the screening to celebrate Myra’s achievements and reflect on the lasting legacy of the Corinthians. The event also highlighted the continued growth of girls’ and women’s football across Stockport, with Myra’s story serving as an inspiration for future generations.
Alison Warwood, CEO of Stockport County Community Trust, said:
“It was a privilege to celebrate Myra’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 join this special celebration alongside the Mayor of Stockport and recognise Myra’s remarkable achievements. The story of the Corinthians is one of courage, determination and breaking down barriers. It is only right that we celebrate one of our own who helped shape the history of women’s football. At Stockport County Community Trust, we are 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, said:
“Myra and the rest of the Corinthians were true pioneers who helped pave the way for today’s players by 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 was supported by local community champions Debra McDonald and Sarah Whittington, alongside Offerton Park Community Association, which played a key role in bringing the event to life.