Fostering the next generation of female footballers

Over the past few months, Dynamo Melbourne FC delivered Fostering the Next Generation of Female Footballers, a free weekly football program for girls aged 10–12, built to keep young players engaged, confident and connected to the game at the age they need it most.

The research is clear: this is the age where girls are most likely to drop out of sport. We designed this program to change that and to keep the ball rolling for the next generation of Dynamo players.

What we built

Held at JJ Holland Park and the newly opened Kensington Aquatic and Recreation Centre, the program gave participants a safe, fun and empowering space to:

• Build confidence

• Develop football skills

• Learn teamwork

• And most importantly, enjoy the game

  
  

Funded by Change Our Game and delivered in partnership with Kensington Juniors Soccer Club, the program was led by Dynamo Melbourne FC coaches and backed by a volunteer workforce who showed up, week after week, with consistency and care.

Representation on the pitch

One of the most powerful parts of this program was who was leading it. Our women coaches and volunteers came from five different countries, bringing their own love of the world game to Melbourne, and showing up every week to help develop the next generation of local players.

At a time when the world needs more inclusion and less division, this program was a reminder of something simple: football is a shared language, no matter where you're from.

Thank you

None of this happens without the people behind it. Thank you to:

• Our Dynamo Board, for the vision and the work that happens behind the scenes

• Change Our Game, for funding this idea and championing women's football

• Kensington Juniors SC, for helping us reach local families and spread the word

• Our coaches and volunteers: your consistency, care and leadership created a lasting impact.