2018 Youth Girls Div 1 Premiers

Celebrating 10 Years of Women’s Football

July 15, 2024

Hear Me Roar: Celebrating 10 Years of Women’s Football at FJFC

“I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter, dancing through the fire

‘Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar

Louder, louder than a lion,

‘Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar.”

With a spirited nod to “Hear us roar,” we celebrate 10 years of women’s football at Fitzroy Junior Football Club, highlighting the growth and achievements of our female players, coaches, umpires, and supporters.

Join us as we showcase the love for the game, the growth of women’s football, and the memorable moments we’ve shared together.

The Love of Football

At FJFC, football is more than a game; it’s a passion that brings joy, friendships, and unforgettable memories to our girls, aged 7-18 years.

Our female players thrive on the field, supported by a community that values their growth.

“Playing for Fitzroy has been an incredible experience. The support and encouragement from the club have helped me grow as a player and a person.”

“Football at Fitzroy means everything to me. It’s my second family.”

Women at FJFC take on various roles, from players to coaches, umpires, and support staff, all integral parts of our team.

“Seeing the growth of women’s football at Fitzroy has been phenomenal. The club has invested in quality coaching and facilities, which has made a significant difference in the development of our female players. It’s wonderful to be part of such a supportive community.”

Development of Women’s Football

The Roy’s Recovery events, celebrating women’s round, will showcase Kate McCarthy, AFLW player and advocate for women’s football.

Some of Kate’s experience includes being former AFLW player (Brisbane Lions 2017-201) , St Kilda 2020-2022 and Hawthorn in 2022 , AFL Women’s All Australian team in 2017, leading Goal kicker Brisbane Lions 2017, coaches the YJFL Yarra Magpies Squads (Talent Pathway for female players in this catchment), conducting the umpires keynote AFL games in the YJFL girls competition and Kate also works on television and radio as a guest expert commentator on AFL and AFLW games.

Kate reflects on the past decade’s growth:

“To be able to work with Girls Football directly at the YJFL has been extremely enjoyable. The love that the Girls have for their football and their teammates is incredible. To be able to go around to games on a Sunday and watch girls as young as 8 play football warms my heart.

The pathways now available to Girls and Women in both AFL and AFLW has grown so much, particularly in recent years. These pathways are all encompassing and not just in regard to playing football, Women and Girls now have the opportunity to Umpire, Coach, Administrate and work in support roles at clubs at the highest level in our sport.”

Key highlights of the women’s competition include:

Strong participation and support for women’s football.
The continuous strong growth of AFLW and local leagues.
Increasing investment in facilities and professional development.
FJFC has a strong record of producing female AFL umpires, providing multiple pathways into football.
FJFC has created multiple development pathways for girls and women, through connection to three Auskick centres (Fitzroy, Clifton Hill & Carlton) and our close connection with our Fitzroy Senior Football Club.
FJFC support many participants in Auskick centres, as they transition to play in girls teams at FJFC.
Many players in our Senior Women’s Team at Fitzroy Football club are former players at FJFC.
Some of the Senior Women’s Players at Fitzroy Football club are Coaches or Assistant Coaches of our girls teams at FJFC
The FJFC Committee currently has 4 female representatives which includes Vice President, Female Development, Safety & Wellbeing and Events Manager.
The FJFC Committee has a key representative focused on female Development.
FJFC has produced five notable AFLW players including: Maddie Guerin (Melbourne, Carlton), Rylie Wilcox (Western Bulldogs), Nell Morris-Dalton (Western Bulldogs)
Building a love for the the game

Great Moments

Let’s hear from the girls at FJFC about their favorite football moments:

“Playing in my first grand final was unforgettable. The support from my teammates and coaches was incredible.”

“Fitzroy Junior Football Club and the YJFL have been fantastic for my daughter. She has gained confidence, friendships, and a love for the game that I know will stay with her forever.”

Empowerment and Overcoming Challenges

Football at FJFC is about more than just the game; it’s about empowerment, resilience, and the courage to keep going.

The last decade has been transformative for women’s football.

Seeing the growth and enthusiasm at clubs like Fitzroy is truly inspiring. The future is bright for young girls in football.

Join Us

Join us at FJFC, support women’s football, and be part of a community where girls can thrive and pursue their dreams.

A Bright Future for Women’s Football

As we celebrate ten years of women’s football at Fitzroy Junior Football Club, we reflect on our journey marked by passion, resilience, and unyielding determination. From the growth of our league to the personal triumphs of each player, we’ve come a long way.

Yet, this is just the start of the next chapter. The future of women’s football is brighter than ever, with more opportunities, greater support, and a stronger community.

Our journey over the past decade has paved the way for the next generation of champions. As we look ahead, we remain committed to fostering a supportive environment where every girl can dream big and achieve her goals.

Celebrate with us and hear the roar of our champions! Together, we will continue to push boundaries, set new records, and create a brighter future for women’s football at FJFC. The best is yet to come.

“Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna hear me roar.”