Girls at Christ the Priest Primary School are kicking big goals in one of only two girls’ football teams competing in the Caroline Springs district.
Christ the Priest will take on Parkwood Green Primary School for the second annual district title this weekend.
Physical education teacher Aron Lombardi said the game was a great way to promote girls and women in football.
“Football is traditionally seen as a boys’ sport,” Mr Lombardi said. “The girls are having a great time playing – it shows them they can do anything they put their mind to.”
Some of the girls had their first footy experience playing alongside the boys, but eventually a girls team was created at the Caroline Springs school. Some now even play outside school, having joined local football clubs.
“They’re definitely learning to get along as a team. They’ve learnt the team’s song and chants to do before the game,” Mr Lombardi said.
“They’ve learnt all the skills – they can kick and mark and now they’re quite strong.”
Player Doreen Lee said the nerves and excitement of the first match of the year were kicking in. “I am practising footy with my friends every day.”
She will be joined by teammates Poppy Kay and Alyssa Campagna, who are also gearing up for a win this weekend. “I can’t wait to play,” Poppy said.
“I have learnt a lot from football, but the most important thing is how to work in a team and have fun.” The girls hope they will inspire others to give it a go.
“It’s fun and not that scary,” Alyssa said. “You don’t have to be amazing to play football and I think most girls would enjoy it.”
