On behalf of everyone at the Scottish FA, I would like to congratulate every member of the Scotland Women’s National Team for their incredible feat of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019.

This is without question a truly remarkable achievement; for the first time, Scotland will be represented at the pinnacle of the women’s game and they will be represented by a team that embodies all that is good about Scottish football.

From digging deep away to Poland to produce a superb comeback, to the professionalism shown in Albania to get the result required, they have truly inspired a nation with their efforts in qualifying.

Throughout the campaign, Shelley has talked about inspiring the nation, from young girls taking their first steps in the world of football to those who have been involved with the sport throughout their life. We have watched as the team have delivered on that goal on every front, from their play on the pitch to their interactions with the fans.

Nowhere was this inspiration more apparent than on that night in Paisley, where a record crowd of 4,098 turned out to support each and every one of them as they outplayed the top seeds in the group from start to finish.

The efforts of everyone involved with the women’s game in Scotland – the SWF, the clubs, the staff, the volunteers and, of course, the playing and coaching staff – were on show that night for what was a truly memorable occasion, and a major milestone for the sport in our country.

All possible credit must go to each and every one of the players and coaches involved in the successful campaign. To build upon the successful qualification for UEFA Euro 2017 is one thing – to kick on in such style is another.

At times it is easy to forget that this is Shelley’s first campaign in charge of the national side, such is the vibrancy and confidence with which this team plays. To qualify for the sport’s biggest stage is a magnificent, and fully deserved accolade with which to cap this debut season at the helm.

Attentions now turn to next summer. What a tournament it promises to be. They will come up against some of the world’s greatest teams and the game’s biggest stars. However, with the backing of the Scotland fans, the talent the team possess and the team spirit that is evident within this squad, I know they will do Scotland proud.

Bring on France 2019.

Alan McRae

Scottish FA President