The beautiful game is more popular than ever in The West, with the number of enthusiastic footballers growing yearly at West Coast Rangers FC. However, thanks to the successful FIFA Women’s World Cup, awareness of the women’s game has been raised, and more and more girls are getting involved.
‘2023 was a big year for football in New Zealand, with the Women’s World Cup being played here and in Australia,’ advises West Coast Rangers’ Administrator Michelle Chandler. She says the successful tournament has ignited an interest in football for girls and women of all ages and abilities.
Based at Fred Taylor Park and Huapai Domain, West Coast Rangers FC was formed only four years ago after the merger of Waitākere City FC and Norwest United. Both clubs have a long and illustrious history, so combining their expertise and resources in one new club made sense.
Michelle says the club now boasts over 1,650 players and 100 competitive teams. ‘Our players are aged from 3 to 66,’ declares Michelle. It’s a significant achievement for such a young club.
West Coast Rangers is very focused on growing the women’s game. Girls and women’s teams are now in social and competitive leagues at every age level. And the premier women’s side recently qualified for the National League, the top-level women’s football competition in New Zealand. The team will compete against the best sides in the country for the national title.
Michelle says that although it’s fantastic to see the explosion in player numbers, it has put pressure on the club’s resources. Registration fees and fundraising efforts only go so far. And if there’s one thing every football club needs, it’s goals.
Thanks to $9,999 in funding from the Your West Support Fund, the club purchased 19 new goals. These small-sized goals have already been put to good use, from the first kicks programme to youth and adult teams that use them in training sessions.
‘Everyone at the club uses the goals for games and training. They help with fitness, coordination and team play,’ declares Michelle.
The Women’s National League has already kicked off, and fixtures run through November. Check out the Facebook page or website for all the details. Why not get behind the team and enjoy top-flight football right here in The West?
