Girl in Charge program resets in 2022

A VICTORIA Police-run program aiming to build healthy community connections, goal setting and self image among teenagers has kicked off on the Surf Coast.

The ‘Girl in Charge’ program re-launched last Wednesday at Wurdi Baierr Stadium after COVID-19 restrictions put a stop to the inaugural program last year.

A group of Surf Coast Secondary Year 9 students will take part in nine netball-oriented sessions over nine weeks where facilitators will empower participants with the tools to foster a positive self-image, achieve healthy goals, and strengthen their relationships with local police and community members.

At the end of the nine-week program participants will Australian standard foundation netball umpiring qualification thanks to program partner Netball Victoria.

“A highlight of the program so far was ‘making a netball from rubbish’ as inspired by Melbourne Vixen player Mwai ‘MJ’ Kumwenda,” program coordinator and Victoria Police Sergeant Kylie Roberts said.

“Kumwenda is from Malawi and growing up she had to make her own netball out of rubbish.

“During a session, participants were challenged to make their own netball and were judged on usability and presentation.
“MJ then sent a message of support to the girls who were all very inspired by her journey.”

Australian Diamond player, Commonwealth Gold Medallist and teammate of Kumwenda at Vixens, Tegan Philip, hosted the March 23 session and taught participants tools to cope with setbacks and inspiring self-belief.

Ms Philip, who grew up an Anglesea local, spent two hours with the girls sharing her story and inspiring competition and camaraderie through team building activities.

“When Kylie reached out and explained to me the program that they were facilitating, I was more than happy to help out,” she said.

“I just wanted to share my story and my challenges, the opportunities I was given from my setbacks and just perfecting a general life balance.”

Ms Philip highlighted the importance of umpires across the sport and positive impact the program can have.

“Netball umpires are crucial at every level whether it’s at the elite level or at grassroots,” Ms Philip said.

“You can’t play the game without them and the fact that this program helps the girls gain more insight to healthier and happier lifestyle, as well as giving them an umpiring qualification, is pretty cool to be a part of.”

Girl in Charge was originally sponsored by the Surf Coast Suns, McCartney Real Estate, Surf Coast Times and the Surf Coast Shire Youth Development Team.