Alkamilya Football Club celebrates its belated 10th anniversary on May 6

An Alice Springs football club, which has brought female Indigenous communities and generations closer together, will celebrate a major milestone.

An Alice Springs football club which has brought female Indigenous communities, and generations, closer together in search of a kick will celebrate its belated 10-year anniversary on May 6.

The Alkamilya Football Club was founded by sisters Rahina, Marisa and the late PR “Magic” Maher to encourage female participation in football, build self esteem and create new friendships.

The club’s 10-year anniversary was originally scheduled for last year before the death of inspirational player “Magic” Maher delayed those plans.

The word “Alkamilya” has a significant meaning, representing a special women’s Jukurrpa, or Dreamtime Story, a constellation of stars connecting to the Milky Way — an important cultural story inherited from Aboriginal elders.

The club began in 2012 in a then nine-a-side competition, providing opportunities for town and remote players at its Albrecht Oval home.

And by 2017 it had recorded its first premiership in the Central Australian Football League’s senior women’s division, after the Panthers lost successive deciders in 2014 and 15.

Its debut flag, amid six grand final appearances in total, was particularly special, beating an all conquering Pioneer team by 14 points who had won all of its 13 games that season.

Club president and player Marisa Maher said Alkamilya was a way of engaging family and friends while providing an important support network.

PR "Magic" Maher was a founding member of the Panthers. Picture: Alkamilya Football Club.

“We care for each other, and involve each other with our concerns,” Maher said.

“We support all the girls, emotionally and physically, make sure they’re OK.”

With the club launching an Under 16 team in 2019 – winning flags that year and last season –

the Panthers have seen mothers and daughters play alongside each other in the seniors.

“I’ve played with my daughter (Hayley) now the past few years, it’s been great,” she said.

“I’m there to support her, encourage her.”

With more than half of the club’s junior team filled by remote-based players, Maher said it as deflating Alice Springs Town Council had barred the community competition from being played on local grounds.

Several players from Hermannsburg also play in the senior team.

“It’s quite disappointing,” she said.

“Most of our juniors are community-based players.

“Footy’s very strong here in town, especially with the community players.

“That’s what they live for, a lot of people live for footy.”

The Alkamilya Football Club provides sporting opportunities for women in the Red Centre. Picture: Alkamilya Football Club.

The club has also been an exporter of talent, with local player Kaitlyn Armstrong kicking 56 majors with St Mary’s during the 2022-23 Women’s Premier League season to be the leading goal kicker.

“She’s been exceptional over the years,” she said.

“She’s a great player, having her at the club lifts us.

“Hopefully she’s back this week to kick off her season.”

The senior women began their 2023 campaign with a five-point win over Federal, despite missing several key players.

However, the final words go to the club’s late co-founder PR “Magic” Maher, who passed away on May 7 last year after a short battle with cancer at the age of 47.

“Growing up in my time girls playing footy was not acceptable,” Maher said.

Alkamilya has won two senior women's premierships, in 2017 and 2018. Picture: Alkamilya Football Club.

“I loved kicking around with my brothers and my parents were always supportive.

“That’s one of the reasons why we decided to put in a women’s team, for out next generation, of young girls to participate and play our great game.”

Former Alkamilya coach Shaun Cusack said Maher was a dedicated Panther who wanted to see women achieve in all aspects of life.

“A commitment we are determined to continue to fulfil her important vision,” he said.

Alkamilya Football Club will hold a gala dinner on May 6 at the Alice Springs Convention Centre.