Five Goldfields Football League women’s teams possible as early as 2021

The Goldfields Football League could feature five female teams as early as 2021, after Railways expressed their interest in joining the new women’s competition.

Boulder City, meanwhile, have been confirmed as the third and final side for this year’s inaugural edition, joining Kalgoorlie City and Mines Rovers.

It is understood Boulder were well progressed in their planning despite only learning of the opportunity late last month, earning them the nod over Kambalda.

“The biggest factor was (Boulder’s) eagerness to actually get a women’s team,” GFL commissioner Eshe Christie said.

“They were quite keen and quite proactive in really trying to get one forward this year.”

A statement released by Railways yesterday informed sponsors and fans of “careful and considered planning to be ready when we are ready (the hope being 2021)”.

“Out of respect to the three current GFL women’s teams, we have chosen to give them clear air as they embark on the new season,” the statement read.

“In the interim, we will be following the progress of the three-team women’s GFL competition very closely and wish them all the very best, before we make the official expressions of interest on our viability to join them in 2021.”

Ms Christie, whose portfolio is female football, remains optimistic about Kambalda’s chances of taking part next season.

“There’s really good player numbers out there and Kambalda have a history of developing really talented female players,” she said.

“That’s where (West Coast utility) McKenzie Dowrick came from and there’s been others who have followed through to WAFL level.

“It’s just a matter of time for Kambalda. They’re another club, along with Railways, that will use this year to put everything in place in terms of background support.

“It’s very possible we’ll have a five-team women’s competition next year.”

Ms Christie believes there is enough talent in the Eastern Goldfields to support five female sides.

“I play for Kangas on their women’s team, and we’ve got girls coming through that have never touched a football in their life,” Ms Christie said.

“The raw talent there ... it’s incredible how much they develop over the space of one season.

“Often, they’re coming from other sports, so they have the fitness and hand-eye coordination.

“It’s just a matter of teaching them the skills of footy, which some of the girls wrap their heads around really quickly. It’s actually mind-blowing to watch.”

GFL women’s games will take place at 10.30am on Saturday mornings, from March 28.