Having fun, making friends and keeping fit through football is the focus of Girls United, a series of targeted programs to encourage women and girls’ participation throughout Queensland.
Girls United will include a range of programs including Development Holiday Programs, social football programs and sessions designed specifically for older women and multicultural communities.
FQ Women and Girls Participation Manager Kate Lawson encouraged women and girls of all ages and cultural backgrounds to get involved in a Girls United program, regardless of their experience in the game.
“Girls United involves a variety of programs to encourage new participants in a fun, low key, inclusive environment,” said Lawson.
“The Girls United Development Holiday Programs will launch across the state in September, with sessions already locked in at Tarragindi Tigers in the Metro South zone, The Gap FC in the Metro North zone, Caloundra FC on the Sunshine Coast, and Endeavor Park in Cairns.
“The free programs are designed to upskill female participants and will include a MiniRoos coaching course, a Level 4 referee course, social games and a BBQ.
“Both events are open to women and girls aged 13 and over, whether they are newcomers to football or experienced players.
“We are also encouraging clubs to host a Girls United Social Program, a Kick On for Women Program, or a Celebrating Diversity Program.
“The Girls United Social Program has already been launched in Wide Bay and provides a space to play football in a social and relaxed setting.
“Girls United Kick On for Women is a low-impact program that provides physical and mental health benefits for women returning to physical activity.
“Girls United Celebrating Diversity is an inclusive program designed to eliminate the barriers faced by culturally and linguistically diverse communities in sport.
“We have already seen great success with this program at Bethania Rams FC in the Metro South zone and Football Queensland will continue to work closely with clubs throughout the state to ensure we have the appropriate structures in place to recruit new participants to the game.”
FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said the launch of Girls United was an ongoing demonstration that FQ is delivering on the objectives outlined in the Women and Girls Strategy.
“Football Queensland is committed to creating new products for women and girls and developing female players, coaches and referees,” said Cavallucci.
“September will be a huge month for Football Queensland as we host the Kappa Women’s Super Cup Final and the celebration of 100 years of women’s football.
“As we look ahead to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, Football Queensland is determined to increase participation opportunities for women and girls throughout the state.”
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