Metro North RDC driving the next generation of female Footballers at Claremont

The Claremont Football Club has long been a pillar of the Western Australian football community. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, so too does the club's commitment to fostering talent and providing opportunities for all athletes, regardless of gender. The club's WAFLW (West Australian Football League Women's) program and the broader female football pathway have become shining examples of this commitment, and wouldn’t be possible without the generous funding contributions from the Metro North Regional Development Council, which has played a crucial role in the program's success.

The WAFLW program at Claremont Football Club is designed to provide female athletes with the resources, coaching, and support necessary to excel in Australian rules football. Since its inception, the program has focused on developing skills, fostering teamwork, and promoting a culture of excellence both on and off the field.

In recent weeks the Clubs’ Female Development Squad (FDS) Program has kicked off inviting more than 65 of the districts most talented 14 year old footballers to participate in an 8 week training program culminating in a series of matches against other WAFL clubs across the October school holidays. This program provides a clear progression for female athletes from community football, enabling them to develop their abilities and provide the best opportunity to transition into the Rogers Cup and ultimately WAFLW League program in the years to come.

In exciting news, some familiar names have appeared in this years cohort, namely Willow Banfield, whose brothers are currently playing with the Claremont Colts and Seniors respectively, and father Drew a WCE Premiership Player; and Alissa Crabb, daughter of Sandover medallist and recent Claremont Football Club Hall of Fame inductee Jaxon.

The success of Claremont Football Club's WAFLW program and the broader female football pathway would not be possible without the invaluable support of the Metro North Regional Development Council. Their funding contributions have enabled the club to employ a specific Female Football human resource and help deliver appropriate coaching and development programs, essential components of a thriving football program.

The Council's commitment to promoting female participation in sports aligns perfectly with Claremont Football Club's vision of inclusivity and excellence. By providing financial support, the Metro North Regional Development Council has played a pivotal role in empowering young female athletes, giving them the tools and opportunities needed to pursue their dreams in Australian rules football. “The RDC is very happy to have assisted with this initiative which is in line with one of our strategic focuses to grow the game.” Metro North Board Chair Ian Brotherton commented.  “Grass roots female football has seen exponential growth in recent years – the RDC advocates pathways created and supported by WAFL clubs to allow females to continue their football journey beyond junior football.  We thank the Claremont Football Club for their work in this area".