Suns pushing for female expansion

FEMALE football preparations at Surf Coast Football Netball Club will officially begin on Wednesday, February 21 when the Torquay club hosts the first of four ‘come and try’ days.

The Suns hope to continue its junior growth this season by recruiting female footballers across the Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, and Under 16 age brackets.

Club vice president Warrick De Vercelli said the Suns plan to expand its female football ranks this year, increasing from three girls sides to four separate age groups this season.

“This year we’re really eager to grow as a football club and are ready to take that next step in the female football space.

“If we can establish sides in each age bracket, from Under 10s to Under 16s, then we become that much closer to creating a full pathway for our players into senior play. That goes for both women’s and men’s football.

“We had some of our younger girls playing in Under 14s last year when they really should have been in Under 12s, but because of our lack of numbers in Under 12s, they had to play up a grade.”

The ‘come and try’ days will be led by Suns female football coordinator Jo King-Hudson at Polwarth Oval on February 21, February 28, and March 5 from 5.30-6.30pm.

Attendees at each session can meet club representatives and participate in drills, before indicating whether or not whether they wish to join the club for the coming season.

“Obviously, absolutely everyone is invited to attend these sessions and we’re keen to welcome newcomers to the game,” De Vercelli said.

“Female football is something that is growing every year, so we just want some of those girls to feel like they can try Aussie Rules and not worry if they’re not at a high skill level.

“Come out and give it a go is what I’d say, plain and simple.”

Last year’s participation splits in AFL Barwon’s female competitions involved senior football numbers increasing from 579 to 588, Under 19s increasing from 178 to 232, Under 14/Under 16s increasing from 433 to 607, and Under 9/Under 10s increasing from 396 to 515.

For additional information on the ‘come and try’ days, email the club at [email protected]