Women in local Sports

So here I am stepping into my power and honouring myself by writing my first blog. It’s a space filled with mixed emotions, as I’ve always found the written word a challenge. But this is me, pushing past that edge.

Consider this your invitation to do the same, try something that stretches you. Be bold. Be brave. And let yourself be inspired by the incredible women in our local sports community.

It’s an honour to sponsor the first Women’s team to take the field for Warburton Football Club. The Burras aren’t just talented footballers, they’re strong, inspiring women who are helping to shape a more respectful and equal future. Watching them play, you can’t help but feel hopeful. They’re setting a powerful example, not just for young girls, but for boys too, showing what respect, resilience, and leadership look like.

Of course, there’s a bigger picture here. The statistics around domestic violence in Australia are deeply confronting. It’s a sobering reality that many women feel safer walking down a dark alley than they do in their own homes. That’s not just a problem, it’s a crisis. Supporting women in sport is one small but meaningful way we can begin to shift the culture and change the story.

I’ve had the privilege of watching young men cheer on their mums, sisters, aunties, girlfriends, and mates as they take the field, playing a sport that, for far too long, women have been excluded from in many parts of Australia. It’s a powerful thing to witness, and it hits close to home. When I was a kid, I wanted to play too, but I was told, “You’ve got too much of a pretty face; no one will want you if you break your nose.” What kind of message is that to give a child? That your value lies in how you look, not what you love or what you're capable of?

So now, watching young girls learn the game alongside the boys, it’s honestly one of the most liberating things I’ve experienced. It’s more than just footy. It’s a shift in what we tell our kids is possible, and in who gets to belong.

Let’s be real, there’s still a long way to go. Systemic barriers and outdated ways of thinking continue to make sport an uneven playing field for girls and women. Local councils, for example, often talk the talk but fall short when it comes to real action, failing to provide the resources needed to keep women and kids safe and supported. But when you see a club that recognises these gaps and steps up with strong leadership, you can’t help but feel hopeful. That’s exactly what’s happening at Warburton. They saw the shortcomings, such as facilities designed initially with only men in mind, and instead of making excuses, they made room. Literally, and the results speak for themselves; look at the rise in women’s membership numbers.

This club has created a space where women’s footy is not only accepted but also embraced. They've even extended that support to the local junior club, backing them with sponsorship and resources. It might sound like a no-brainer, but unfortunately, it’s not the norm. Talk to women in footy circles across the state and you’ll hear far too many stories of having to fight just to be allowed to train. Warburton is showing what’s possible when inclusion isn’t just a buzzword, it’s the standard.

I spent Mother’s Day weekend watching my daughter and sister play local footy with a club that truly backs them. It was a proud moment—but also a reminder of how far we’ve still got to go. I overheard a male supporter from another club saying women should just be grateful to play, and shouldn’t expect the same rights as men. I’ll be honest, it stung. I wanted to speak up, but sometimes you know it won’t land. So I took a sip of my coffee and walked away, knowing real change comes through showing up, backing progress, and letting actions speak louder than ignorance.

One of the things I love most about Warburton is seeing the men step up to support the women in their lives to play sport. They’re not just cheering from the sidelines; they’re actively helping close the labour gap. The club president was at the gate at the women’s game, while the men and boys chipped in with jobs around the club. The younger ones are growing up in a culture that values respect, health, and equality, regardless of gender.

I see proud dads with their kids, watching mum kick a goal or take a mark, and it’s honestly something I never thought I’d witness on a weekend. But here I am, cheering on my sister and daughter, and loving every moment. After COVID, it’s especially heartening to see families reconnect through sport. One of my favourite sights is Kylie and her two gorgeous kids all backing each other in on game day. That kind of shared experience is pretty special.

So yes, I’ll keep supporting the Burras. As a therapist, I can see how deeply this club values mental health and the broader wellbeing of the community. They’re building something more than a team; they’re creating a space that’s safe, inclusive, and genuinely supportive.