Sharks prioritising tight-knit vibe amid numbers boom

ARMSTRONG Creek’s female football program is expanding quickly in the fast-growing suburb.

After having only five girls involved in mixed footy in 2023, the Sharks introduced under-10s and under-14s last year in the AFL Barwon juniors.

Under-16s will be added this season as they have joined forces with Barwon Heads to be formally known as Barwon Heads-Armstrong Creek and they’ll wear a jumper that represents both clubs equally.

Female football co-ordinator Sarah Monahan said the club wanted to maintain its community feel amid the exciting growth.

“We’ve worked really hard to create a strong foundation and I want it to be a foundation that is long lasting,” she said.

“What I love about our club is that everyone knows everybody, we are a small community here, we are a fast-growing club but we’ve kept our numbers manageable.”

Armstrong Creek under-16 players Keisha Mitchell, Willow Monahan, Scarlett Beal, and Frida Collins (all 14).

She said it was important every player felt involved and got game time rather than having a big bench.

The hope is to introduce under-18 girls and then in about five years’ time, a women’s team.

Monahan feels it will happen and highlighted how easy it was to get to Shark Park from nearby schools.

The footy coordinator provided great insight into what it was like starting a female program.

“Probably the biggest difference I find with girls football is that they’re not just there to play footy,” she said.

“We found that out quite early. If they’re not having fun, if there is not a form of joy about what they are doing, they won’t come back.

Armstrong Creek players Shanalisee Mitchell, 9, Lux Atkin, 12, Asher Beal, 10, and Harley Pinto, 11.

“You have a couple of diehard football players but the bulk are there for the social aspect.”

Playing pumping music at training, having make-up vouchers rather than footy cards as prizes, and holding social nights are among the strategies the Sharks have had success with, according to Monahan.

She acknowledged the challenges of female footy such competing with other sports and parents fearing it is too rough for their children; and explained the club had brought in extra trainers to teach many of the players the basics of tackling and being tackled.

The Sharks are seeking more under-12 and under-14 players, and the season starts on April 27.