Northern NSW Football is delighted to confirm its NPLW competition will commence in 2022.
The eight clubs part of the Herald Women’s Premier League competition, Adamstown Rosebud JFC, Broadmeadow Magic, Charlestown Azzurri, Maitland FC, Mid Coast FC, Newcastle Olympic, New Lambton FC and Warners Bay FC, have been offered licences to transition into the new eight-team NPLW competition.
Northern NSW Football General Manager Football Operations Liam Bentley said NNSWF were excited to take the next step to grow the game for women and girls.
“The majority of these clubs have been part of the process already because of their involvement in the men’s NPL competition. The ones who have not are well-run, capable clubs who will be ready for the step up,” Bentley said.
“It is important to know that as part of the transition we will be looking to assist clubs in reaching the areas of the criteria they may not yet reach and help them raise the bar for their own players, coaches and volunteers.
“This is part of our next step as the governing body to grow the women’s game with scope for further expansion in the future.
“The transition will aim to raise the bar on and off the field and be the next step in improving the environment and pathway for female players developing in our region.”
NNSWF put together a working group of respected voices in the women’s game to guide the criteria process.
The criteria included requirements around team composition, player points system, FA/Member Federation Pathway and Youth Development Skill Acquisition Program.
Clubs have until 9 September to accept their licence.
Northern NSW Football CEO David Eland said the introduction of an NPLW competition would prove hugely beneficial to women’s football in the region in the lead up to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and beyond.
“While the pandemic delayed the transition, we very much appreciate the input of everyone involved in this process,” Eland said.
“Women and girls are a strategic priority for Northern NSW Football and, with the Women’s World Cup to be played in Australia and New Zealand less than two years away, the transition to an NPLW competition couldn’t have come at a better time.
“We congratulate those eight clubs on being offered licences in the inaugural NPLW NNSW competition and wish them all the best next season.”