Girls and Women’s Month launches for 2023
Girls and Women's Month is back for 2023.
It’s World Cup year, and with the biggest sporting event ever held in Aotearoa New Zealand kicking off in just a few months, one of the key legacies of the tournament will be in the opportunities it creates for girls and women to be involved in the game – at all levels, in all forms.
Girls and Women’s Month is an important part of that aim, and provides the perfect opportunity to fall in love with football, says New Zealand Football Women’s Development Manager Annalie Longo.
“Girls and Women’s Month is about our federations and clubs opening their doors to new opportunities to engage more girls and women in football and futsal, as well as providing opportunities for our girls to connect with their heroes in the national teams,” says Longo.
Throughout Aotearoa New Zealand this month there are numerous different ways to get involved in the game – whether it’s playing, coaching, or refereeing; whether it’s on the field, the FIFA Unity Pitch, the court, or even the beach. Ford Football Ferns will also attend selected events around the country.
Each of the six football federations will hold free participation events, making this a great opportunity for girls and women to give football a go, have fun with friends, and learn more about the opportunities the game offers, especially with the community seasons starting soon.
Having a range of events throughout the country is key to engaging more girls and women in football and futsal, says Longo. She notes that the different formats on offer – ranging from traditional 11-a-side and futsal to beach football and walking football – are about increasing accessibility to the sport.
“Having a variety of activities in each federation throughout the month is key for upping the accessibility and visibility of the game for girls and women,” she says.
“It’s about letting them know that there are spaces for them throughout the game - whether it’s through playing, coaching, refereeing or administration - however they want to be involved, and empowering them to be involved,” says Longo.
See here for more information on Girls and Women’s Month. To find out what’s happening during the month near you, or if you’re keen to get your club or school involved, click on your federation below:
Article added: Wednesday 01 March 2023
