Women’s game on the rise
Female footballers love sport’s evolution
Toowoomba’s female football players love what they’re seeing locally and across the globe.
The pathways available to young female players and the respect given to our women’s national team excites them.
As part of Football Queensland’s Female Football Week, The Chronicle spoke to a number of regional players.
Sue Bubeck, who first started playing football in 1978, said she loved how much the game had evolved.
“When I first started playing – it was women’s soccer,” she said.
“There were no juniors playing, they were told they couldn’t play sport. Everyone was in their 20s and even then we were told there was no place – we should be at home or in the kitchen, they’d say.
“I just love how much things have changed, now girls are six and seven years old when they start playing.”
Bubeck, who became Toowoomba’s first female Qld representative player in 1983, also believes Toowoomba can produce the next Sam Kerr.
“When I was part of the Queensland team I played with a few Australian players,” she said.
“In those days there was zero coverage of the game and the Aussie players had to pay their own way.
“Nowadays there are so many more pathways for young players – there are so many talented young girls playing right now and I think we could produce a future Matildas player.”
West Wanderers player Sharon Hill is also excited about the opportunities for young girls today.
“There are so many more pathways and opportunities for young girls now,” she said.
“We have the W-League here in Australia but there also places like the US and overseas for players to explore.”
Hill, who played overseas before injury cut her England adventure short, said Toowoomba was also a great place for young footballers.
“I think is very welcoming and accepting. Players might start their journey here and leave but they’re always welcomed back.”
New Willowburn recruit Shannon Tyrrell believes Toowoomba is indicative of football communities Australiawide.
“I moved her from Brisbane and signed with Willowburn,” she said.
“The great thing about playing football is you can make new friends where ever you go. Toowoomba is no different.
“Everyone is working together with the same goal and that helps build friendships – it’s like being part of a new family.”