SPOTLIGHT: Football QLD honours best and brightest women in sport
WOMEN IN SPOTLIGHT: Football Queensland is celebrating the Sunshine State’s best female players, coaches and volunteers. Find out who picked up major awards from your club here.
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Queensland’s female stars of tomorrow and the volunteers that help them are in the spotlight this week with clubs celebrating Female Football Week.
As part of the week long celebrations Football Queensland has presented a number of special awards to players and volunteers across the state.
Find out who from your club picked up an award here.
Information in this article is provided by the Football Queensland Media Team
FAR NORTH AND GULF
Female Football Week ramps up this weekend with a blockbuster top four battle headlining the Female Football Round action.
FQPL Far North & Gulf women’s competition leaders Leichhardt Lions will host league heavyweights Edge Hill United in the Female Football Round Feature Match at Jeff Pezzutti Park this Friday evening.
Edge Hill and Leichhardt are unbeaten this season, with the Lions sitting one win ahead of the Tigers who have three wins and a draw.
Both sides will be keen to flex their muscles over their league rivals after meeting in last year’s semi-final when the Lions knocked out the Tigers.
Fixtures
Men
Saturday, May 11
Stratford Dolphins vs. Marlin Coast Rangers, Nick Brko Field, 7pm
Redlynch Strikers vs. Mareeba United, Calanna Park, 7pm
Sunday, May 12
Leichhardt Lions vs. Edge Hill Tigers, Leichhardt FC, 5:00pm
Women
Friday, May 10
Redlynch Strikers vs. Mareeba United, Calanna Park, 8.30pm
Leichhardt Lions vs. Edge Hill Tigers, Jeff Pezzutti Park, 8.30pm
Saturday, May 11
Innisfail United vs. Southside Comets, Steve Corica Oval, 3pm
Female Football Week Awards – Player of the Year
Football Queensland is thrilled to announce the 2024 #FemaleFootballWeek Player of the Year, Fuschia Duncan-Cruzado from Edge Hill United FC.
From her early days in Under-5s to her current stellar performances, Fuschia’s football journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
With numerous team and individual awards under her belt, she has proven herself as a naturally gifted standout performer.
Fuschia’s impact goes far beyond her impressive skills on the field.
Her journey from a shy 5-year-old to a confident 11-year-old has been a highlight for her coach and the Edge Hill FC community to witness.
Through her unwavering determination, she has conquered barriers and obstacles, embodying resilience, kindness, and an infectious love for the game along the way.
Fuschia’s journey serves as a huge source of inspiration, motivating others to pursue their passions fearlessly and leaving a profound impact on all who have the privilege of crossing her path.
South Coast
From grassroots to the top of the game, football across Australia has begun celebrating Female Football Week.
Running from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 12 aiming to capitalise on the success and momentum of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 while acknowledging the contributions of women and girls to the football community.
Numerous events are taking place at football clubs across the state.
Locally, Nerang Soccer Club will host a History of Women’s Soccer event on Friday, May 10.
Featuring three matches, including two junior girls’ games and one FQPL3 women’s match. Nerang has invited former players who have represented Gold Coast and Australia down to the club to create an enjoyable festival celebration for women and girls.
Embracing a strong female theme, Nerang will have junior girls walking out with FQPL players to kick off the match, followed by a barbecue for all female players in attendance.
Similarly, Robina City will host a Celebrating Women and Girls in Football day on Saturday, May 11.
The club have begun to unite its senior and junior women’s teams to mark Female Football Week, with the under-12s, U15s and U16s joining the first team for training this week to build their connection to senior football at the club/
Queensland Female Coach of the Year
Football Queensland have also announced that Jessica McLean from Crusaders Futsal Club on the coast has been named Female Coach of the Year as part of Female Football Week.
Described as an exceptional human and more than just a coach, she’s an influential mentor and advocate for young female athletes.
As the club’s women and girls ambassador, senior women’s goalkeeper, and club goalkeeping coach, she works tirelessly to empower more female participants to join the game and excel both on and off the field.
Behind the scenes, Jessica’s impact extends far beyond coaching.
With a remarkable track record representing Queensland and Australia, as well as coaching the Queensland U13 squad at the 2024 National Futsal Championships, Jessica is a passionate leader dedicated to uplifting members of the football community.
She serves as a mentor to young athletes dealing with anxiety and confidence issues, providing unwavering support and equipping them with lifelong strategies for success.
Round Review
It was a catch-up, catch up weekend in the Gold Coast FQPL competitions this weekend.
We were still treated to a handful of entertaining matches over the weekend, take a look at the players who performed best for their teams, as voted by the coaches
Men
Southport vs Runaway Bay (1-1)
Runaway Bay: Brock Jarman 3, Courtney Smith 2, Thirone Correia 1
Musgrave vs. Coomera (7-2)
Musgrave: Foti Papanikolaou 3, Jarrod Lee 2, Jessi Reardon 1
Robina vs Burleigh Heads (4-1)
Robina: Adam Endean 3, Ryan Hawken 2, Luke Devitt, 1
Women
Musgrave vs. Northern Rivers (2-1)
Musgrave: Georgia Grosskreutz 3, Monique Miller 2, Evelina, Hansson
Northern Rivers: Alicia Primiano 3, Erin Green 2, Lolah Edwards 1
NPL Women Match Preview
Female Football Week fever continues this weekend with another huge National Premier Leagues battle ahead for the Gold Coast United Women.
Looking to bounce back after a devastating injury time loss to Lions over the weekend, United head north to Nudgee Recreation Reserve with a point to prove.
United’s loss to Lions at the weekend opened the door to Lions to overtake them on the ladder, as Lions moved level with United on 22 points.
United, who now sit in third place, know they need to take three points from this clash to keep the pace with league leaders Brisbane City.
The FQ Academy QAS will be coming off their 6-2 weekend loss to Eastern Suburbs with a point to prove of their own and will be keen to get off to a strong start against the league’s best defence.
The match kicks off in Brisbane at Nudgee Recreation Reserve on Sunday at 5.30pm.
Whitsunday Coast
Round one of the Mitre Champions League began over the weekend, featuring a double header hosted by Whitsunday United FC, showcasing two FQPL Whitsunday Coast teams competing for a spot in the next round.
In the women’s clash, Brothers Townsville and Mackay Lions met halfway at Whitsunday United FC.
Brothers Townsville secured an early lead, going into halftime with a 1-0 advantage.
However, Mackay Lions’ Katrina Sellar equalised in the 57th minute, forcing the game into extra time.
Despite a valiant effort from Mackay Lions, Brothers Townsville emerged victorious with a 3-1 win.
Meanwhile, in the men’s match, Whitsunday United welcomed Brothers Townsville to their home ground.
Brothers Townsville dominated the early stages, claiming an early lead in the first half. However, Whitsunday United staged a remarkable comeback, with Jake Kenna levelling the score in the 86th minute.
Just four minutes later, Sam Blake secured the winning goal for Whitsunday United, sealing their win in a tightly contested match.
Round Preview
Female Football Week celebrations are in full swing across the state, highlighting the invaluable contributions of women and girls in the football community.
A key initiative of the week is Football Queensland’s Women’s Football Round, aimed at recognising and honouring the achievements of female players, coaches, administrators, and supporters.
In the FQPL Whitsunday Coast women’s competition three exciting matches are scheduled for Friday night.
Country United will take on third-placed Magpies FC at Tiger Park.
Mackay Wanderers brace themselves for a challenging encounter against ladder leaders Mackay Lions, while City Brothers seek their first win of the season as they host Mackay Rangers.
Saturday’s line-up features a thrilling top-four clash between second-placed Dolphins FC and fourth-placed Whitsunday United FC, promising an exciting battle between two formidable teams.
Fixtures
Women
Friday, May 10
Country United v Magpies FC, Tiger Park, 8pm
Mackay Lions v Mackay Wanderers, Lions Field, 8pm
City Brothers v Mackay Rangers, City Brothers Field, 8pm
Saturday, May 11
Dolphins FC v Whitsunday United, Dolphins Park, 6pm
Men
Saturday, May 11
City Brothers v Mackay Lions, City Brothers Field, 7pm
Mackay Wanderers v Mackay Rangers, Wanderers Park, 7pm
Sunshine Coast
Female Football Week ramps up this weekend with three blockbuster clashes headlining Female Football Round.
Kawana FC host Gympie United who are fresh off handing Noosa Lions their first loss of the season.
Kawana are yet to record a win this season and will be hoping to get their first on the board against United in a crucial clash for both sides.
Maroochydore FC square off against Beerwah Glasshouse in a 2023 grand final rematch at Maroochydore FC.
Maroochydore are flying at the moment, sitting in top spot with five wins from five matches. Beerwah Glasshouse sit eight points behind in third place with three wins and a draw from their seven matches.
A win for Beerwah Glasshouse will be crucial to finding their 2023 form and making a charge for the premiership.
Our feature match of the weekend is between second place Noosa Lions and fifth place Woombye Snakes at the Girraween Sports Complex.
Noosa were challenging leaders Maroochydore until their first loss of the season against Gympie United last week and will be hoping to bounce back against another top four hopeful. The Snakes have had a mixed start to the year, dropping outside of the finals position last week after starting the season with three wins and three losses. Catch all the feature match action from 8.30pm this Friday.
Women
Friday, May 10
Kawana FC vs. Gympie United, Kawana Western Sports Precinct, 6.30pm
Maroochydore FC vs. Beerwah Glasshouse, Maroochydore FC, 8.30pm
Noosa Lions vs. Woombye Snakes, Girraween Sports Complex, 8.30pm
Men
Saturday, May 11
Noosa Lions vs. Kawana FC, Girraween Sports Complex, 5pm
Buderim Wanderers vs. Maroochydore FC, Ballinger Park, 6pm
Gympie United vs. Beerwah Glasshouse, One Mile Oval, 6pm
Woombye Snakes vs. Baringa FC, Woombye Snakes FC, 6pm
Coolum FC vs. Caloundra FC, Coolum Sports Complex, 6pm
Round 9 Results
Men
Noosa Lions 6 def Baringa FC 2
Postponed: Kawana FC vs. Nambour Yandina
Postponed: Buderim Wanderers vs. Beerwah Glasshouse
Women
Noosa Lions 3 def Kawana FC 0
Woombye Snakes 1 drew with Beerwah Glasshouse 1
Female Football Week Awards – Volunteer of the Year
Football Queensland is thrilled to announce the 2024 #FemaleFootballWeek Volunteer of the Year, Amanda Milburn from Beerwah Glasshouse United.
As club president, Amanda sets an inspiring example for all with her kindness and inclusivity. Her fellow club members describe her quiet determination and commitment to excellence as a crucial factor in the success of the club’s operations and community engagement.
Whether she’s tirelessly working at the canteen, cheering on junior teams, or championing inclusivity initiatives, Amanda’s commitment is an inspiration to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Darling Downs
From local fields to the highest echelons of our sport, Football throughout Australia is embracing Female Football Week.
USQ have Female Football Week, as they held a female only level 4 refereeing course at Tora Park last Saturday, while Football Queensland broadcastthe top of the table FQPL 3 Darling Downs women’s matchup between Willowburn White and Highfields Green.
Review
The Darling Downs FQPL competition resumed at the weekend
Men
Highfields vs. West Wanderers (0-3)
West Wanderers: Saher Khidir 3, Kurt Kohlbach 2, Ada Ndayishimiye 1
Warwick vs. Rockville Rovers (1-3)
Rockville Rovers: Robert Davey 3, Liam Hackenberg 2, Dom Benz 1
Women
Warwick vs. Highfields Gold (6-1)
Warwick: Sophie Simpson 3, Elise Wyvill 2, Caitlin Fisher 1
Willowburn White vs. Highfields Green (2-1)
Willowburn White: Hannah Clarke 3, Shannon Tyrrell 2, Shandell Doro 1
Rockville Rovers vs. USQFC (3-1)
Rockville Rovers: Dawn Holden 3, Madison Lockwood 2, Jessica Spence 1
Far North
Round one of the Mitre Champions League kicked off over the weekend, featuring three exciting battles among FQPL Northern teams vying for advancement to the next round.
In the women’s competition, Brothers Townsville met Mackay Lions at Whitsunday United FC.
Despite Brothers Townsville’s early lead, Mackay Lions staged a remarkable comeback, equalising in the 57th minute.
The match stretched into extra time, but Brothers Townsville emerged victorious with a 3-1 victory.
Meanwhile, MA Olympic FC embarked on a journey to Cairns for a showdown against Leichhardt Lions FC.
Demonstrating their dominance, MA Olympic delivered a stellar performance, with Jennifer Fotino netting two goals and Monika Anderson shining with four goals, securing a convincing 9-0 victory against Lions.
In the men’s competition Whitsunday United hosted Brothers Townsville on their home turf. Although Brothers Townsville took the lead early, Whitsunday United staged a thrilling comeback, scoring two goals in five minutes to eliminate Brothers from the Mitre Champions League.
Round Preview
Female Football Week celebrations are in full swing across the state, highlighting the invaluable contributions of women and girls in the football community.
A key initiative of the week is Football Queensland’s Women’s Football Round, aimed at recognising and honouring the achievements of female players, coaches, administrators, and supporters.
In the FQPL Northern women’s competition, three exciting matches are scheduled for Saturday afternoon.
Townsville Warriors will take on second-placed Brothers Townsville at Melrose Park. Burdekin FC brace themselves for a challenging encounter against ladder leaders MA Olympic, while Riverway JCU look to get their season back on track when they host Saints Eagles Souths at Joe Baker Field.
Round 8 Fixtures
Women
Saturday, May 11
Townsville Warriors v Brothers Townsville, Melrose Park, 5pm
Burdekin FC v MA Olympic FC, International Park, 5pm
Riverway JCU v Saints Eagles South, Joe Baker Field JCU, 5:30pm
Men
Saturday, May 11
Burdekin FC v MA Olympic FC, International Park, 7pm
Estates FC v Rebels FC, Victoria Park, 7pm
Riverway JCU v Saints Eagles South, Joe Baker Field JCU, 7:30pm
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Originally published as SPOTLIGHT: Football QLD honours best and brightest women in sport
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