How did you first get involved in football and which NSFA club did you play for?
We started playing for West Pymble FC in 2007 and played for two years (ily Norman Griffiths Oval!)
How long have you been playing football in NSFA for?
This is our 13th year playing in NSFA. Both of us have played 10 years at Northern Tigers, with Kim recently moving back to her roots in club football, now playing for the NSFA club Lindfield FC (yeah the girls). Amanda is playing her 11th year at Northern Tigers.
What motivated you to take a step in the pathway and try out for Northern Tigers?
We heard of some other girls getting involved from West Pymble and thought we’d trial for the U16’s NT team in 2009. At first we didn’t get selected but with persistence at the second trial we were both signed and the rest is history!
How has the female game progressed in NSFA?
The female game has progressed out of sight in NSFA over the last decade. We think this is mainly due to investment in development programs, great coaches, training facilities, as well as the success of the Northern Tigers Women club and promotion to NPL1. The development focus, professionalism and competitive environment has become strong at Northern Tigers and more broadly NSFA.
We have also found that more girls and women are giving football a go in general – to spend time with their mates and stay fit.
Can you tell us about the Skellern Cup?
The Skellern Cup is an annual girls football tournament for primary schools in the NSFA catchment. The event aspires to celebrate girls playing football, bringing together regular players and non-players to showcase the inclusiveness, enjoyment and camaraderie that football as a sport provides. Over 500 girls took to the field at North Turramurra Recreation Area last year for the second NSFA Skellern Cup. Hoping for another big year in 2019 – it’s always just a fun two days!
What do you think the female game has in store for the future?
Surely a World Cup for Aus to bring home in July! But seriously, it will only get bigger and better!! The Matildas (and other national women’s teams – including USA) have been a driving force and role models for women in sport in general and we expect this to increase the level of participation and investment in/sponsorship of women’s football.
Click here for more information about the NSFA Skellern Cup!