As advocates for women in football, Women Onside has long championed the advancement of women’s participation in the sport. The recent article from The Guardian regarding the surge in registration numbers for women and girls in football across NSW, Victoria, and Queensland reflects the undeniable impact of the Matildas Effect.
While we celebrate this growth, it also serves as a reminder of the need for proactive measures to support and accommodate the increasing number of women and girls entering the sport. Women Onside acknowledges that preparation and investment are crucial to ensuring that all participants, regardless of gender, have equitable opportunities to thrive in football.
As an organisation committed to the empowerment of women in football, we call for continued collaboration between stakeholders at all levels to foster an inclusive environment that encourages and sustains the growth of women’s football. It’s imperative that the growth of women’s football is strategically driven by government initiatives rather than solely relying on volunteer-run clubs to address infrastructure needs. A coordinated approach with government involvement ensures equitable access, sustainable development, and long-term support for women in football to address the evolving needs of female players, coaches, administrators, and fans.
Let us use this momentum to propel women’s football forward, ensuring that every woman and girl who dreams of kicking a ball finds a welcoming and supportive community within the beautiful game. Together, we can create a future where gender equality in football is not just an aspiration but a reality.
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