Celebrating the women and girls involved in all areas of the game, Female Football Week was held across the state last week, showcasing the strength and continued growth of the women’s game in Queensland.

Kicking off the week in style, the Westfield Matildas came to town for the first time since 2014, with an open training session held at Lions Stadium on Saturday, 2 March allowing many eager young fans to grab a glimpse of their idols in preparation for the Cup of Nations fixture against Korea Republic on Sunday, 3 March.

Currently ranked sixth in the world, the Westfield Matildas certainly did not disappoint in their return to Suncorp Stadium with a resounding 4-1 victory over Korea Republic.

With the Westfield Matildas kicking off the celebrations, community clubs across the state ensured they did not miss the opportunity to take part in Female Football Week, with a host of events taking place across the state.

Rockhampton’s Nerimbera Football Club played host to four different clubs of the Football Central Queensland region, with the women’s teams from Nerimbera, Capricorn Coast, Bluebirds and Gracemere taking part in a double header, and activities and a BBQ incorporating junior girls and families.

NPL, NPLW and FQPL clubs also joined in the celebrations, with Olympic FC, Eastern Suburbs FC, Capalaba FC and Western Pride FC all hosting gala events including women’s games, barbecues and showcases of pieces of club history highlighting the significance women play in the continued growth of club success both now and into the future.

Alongside club events, shaping the future stars of the women’s game continued with Football Queensland (FQ) holding female-only skill and game training courses, and ALDI Miniroos coaching courses across the state.

To top off the week, the rebel Female Football Awards were held on International Women’s Day, Friday 8 March.

Queensland came away with two winners in Brisbane Roar W-League Coach Mel Andreatta receiving the Female Coach of the Year Award for her success in taking her side to new heights over the past three years, and Chris McAlister receiving the Female Fan of the Year Award for her continued support of all Brisbane Roar sides.

Football Queensland would like to thank all those that participated in celebrating and showcasing women’s football throughout Female Football Week #YehTheGirls!

Images: Capalaba FC, Paul Smith, Nerimbera FC, Gladstone United FC, UQFC
Words: Jacob Cocciolone