Milestone moment for women's football in country WA

North Albany’s historic win in the inaugural Great Southern Football League Women’s (GSFLW) Youth Girls premiership is being hailed as a defining moment for the development of women’s football in regional Western Australia.

The Kangas lifted the first-ever youth girls trophy in front of a vibrant crowd at Collingwood Park on Friday night, outlasting a late surge from Railways to secure a thrilling 3.4 (22) to 3.0 (18) victory. Rising star Kimberley Duncan was named best on ground for her composed performance under pressure.

Coach Simon Deegan said the premiership was not only a proud moment for the club, but also a powerful reflection of the momentum behind youth girls football in the Great Southern.

“I think we’ll see exponential growth in the skill level,” Deegan said.
“There’s a real commitment from everyone involved to grow the game — not just for now, but for the next generation. Most people are in it for the right reasons: development, opportunity, and long-term sustainability.”

The GSFLW Youth Girls competition, launched this year following the integration of the Southern Districts Junior Football Association (SDJFA), has already proven to be a crucial stepping stone in the region’s female football pathway. The move was designed to create stronger links between junior and senior women's competitions, and to ensure more structured opportunities for young girls to develop and stay in the game.

“For a first year, it’s about as good as it gets,” Deegan said.
“It’s blossomed into a four-team comp and the way it’s been built — from the ground up — is something really special. The foundations are strong, and that gives us a lot of confidence moving forward.”

This competition doesn’t just represent a local success — it’s part of a broader movement taking place across country WA. The growth of structured youth girls competitions is vital to the sustainability and expansion of women’s football in regional areas. With strong grassroots support, girls now have a clearer pathway from Auskick to senior footy, backed by committed clubs and community volunteers.

Country Football WA recognises competitions like the GSFLW Youth Girls as essential in creating long-term change. By giving young women and girls a platform to play, develop, and shine, it fosters community connection, builds confidence, and drives participation in towns where football plays a central role.

Deegan was proud of his side’s composure in the final minutes of the match as they held off a spirited Tigers comeback.
“I was just thinking, ‘Just hold on,’” he said.
“We’d done everything to get in front — we just had to finish it off. Thankfully, everything came together on the night.”

With a successful inaugural season now complete, the focus shifts to the future — one that looks increasingly bright for women’s football in the Great Southern and beyond.