Sandringham Zebras push to field 2019 VFLW team
The Sandringham Zebras are aiming to field a VFLW team next season in a move expected to boost female sports participation and the Bayside economy.
Inner South
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FEMALE sports participation and the Bayside economy are both set for a major boost with the Sandringham Zebras gearing up to enter a VFLW team in 2019.
The bold plan was given a kick start after the club formed a subcommittee made up of key stakeholders including St Kilda Football Club, AFL Victoria and Bayside Council in a move to get the Zebras VFLW bound.
Sandringham Football Club chief executive David Cannizzo said the proposed high-level women’s football team will “absolutely boost female sports participation in Bayside and bolster the local economy”.
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He also said growth in participation levels of girls and women in AFL football in the Bayside area gives the club “confidence in this venture”.
“Female participation is the future of VFL Football and we are in strong position to make this work,” he said.
“To be prominent and relevant in state league football you have to have the highest level of men’s and women’s footy.”
Mr Cannizzo said players, coaches and support staff will be chosen “on merit” when the club was ready to fill positions.
“We will establish and maintain a quality talent pathway to identify, attract and develop footballers,” he said.
In the meantime, Bayside Mayor Laurence Evans said the council will call on the state government to fund a Trevor Barker Beach Oval facility upgrade to “encourage women’s participation in sport”.
“Great to hear the Sandringham Zebras going for a women’s side in the VFLW competition in 2019,” he said.
“Council supports women’s participation in sport across the municipality and will be cheering the Zebras on next year.”
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