Sport
5 May, 2026
Girls Auskick commences this Thursday
Local aspiring girls foot-ballers are encouraged to lace up their boots and kick for goal at the Maryborough Football and Netball Club’s All Girls Auskick Program.
Starting this Thursday, May 7, from 4 pm at Princes Park, the eight-week program will run in conjunction with the club’s mixed Auskick for girls aged between five and 12 years old.
Despite the Magpies not having a girls-only team, club president Glen Bardsley said the community has been asking for the program.
“We’re excited to create more opportunities for girls to get involved in footy in a fun and supportive environment,” he said.
“While all of our junior teams are mixed, we currently have just one girl playing in our under 12s, and we’d absolutely love to see those numbers grow.
“This program is about building confidence, skills and friendships, while creating a clear pathway for girls to continue their football journey at our club.
“We’re committed to being welcoming and inclusive, and we can’t wait to see more girls pulling on the jumper in the years ahead.”
Shelley Feilding, Olivia and Caitlin Butler will be coaching the girls Auskick, with the trio also involved with the Carisbrook Lady Redbacks, currently the region’s only women’s football team.
While young footballers like Rhani Evans, Emme Johnson, Tamika Loone-Grundy and Charlotte Metters are contributing at the Ballarat Women’s Football League senior level, the Lady Redbacks have been unable to field a junior team in the last two seasons due to a lack of numbers.
Caitlin Butler said she’s hopeful the program can encourage the next generation of local women’s footballers to participate.
“It’s exciting to help create a pathway for girls to come through, hopefully they’ll be the future of the women’s team,” she said.
“It’s rewarding when they’re learning new things and helping them get more confident and be involved.
“Footy clubs are a big part of small communities, so getting the next generation involved is very important.”
For more information, or to register for the Maryborough Football and Netball Club’s girls or mixed Auskick program, visit www.playhq.com/afl/register/4ad8dc