Mounting Calls for Macarthur FC to Join A-League Women’s League as Auckland Commits to 2025
The demand is growing for Macarthur FC to establish a team in the A-League Women’s (ALW) competition, especially after the announcement that Auckland will introduce a women's team in 2025. Macarthur FC, based in south-west Sydney, received their men’s license six years ago but has yet to announce any concrete plans for a women’s team. Despite being granted a $1 million federal government grant from the “Play Our Way” women’s sports fund, which allocated $200 million to support female sports, Macarthur FC has not committed to a timeline for joining ALW. The club’s grant is specified as a community engagement fund aimed at increasing participation in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, rather than funding for a women’s team directly. However, the community and fans are urging Macarthur to fast-track its entry, reflecting a wider push for greater female representation in Australian sports.
This call to action is not without reason. The region has become known as a "breeding ground for female footballers," producing talents like Matildas veteran Alanna Kennedy. Additionally, local National Premier League team Macarthur Rams have made an impact by winning three consecutive state titles. Prominent figures like Rams’ former coach Stephen Peters, who recently joined Perth Glory in the ALW, advocate for a women’s team in the region, highlighting the area’s rich pool of talented players. Many of these players currently compete in other ALW teams, a testament to the footballing strength emerging from south-west Sydney.
Also Read:- ONE 169: Malykhin Vs. Reug Reug Shakes Up ONE Championship with Explosive Action
- Bronny James’ NBA Journey Shifts to G League for Growth and Opportunity
With Auckland’s preparations to launch a women’s team already underway, the contrast with Macarthur FC’s approach becomes more pronounced. Auckland’s Chief Executive, Nick Becker, emphasized the club’s commitment to creating pathways for female players, demonstrating a proactive stance that has won the admiration of the community. Becker’s team has already reported a 25% annual growth in women’s participation in football, signaling the growing popularity and opportunity that the women’s league provides.
Currently, every A-League Men’s club, with the exception of Macarthur, fields a women’s team in the ALW. The Bulls organization has expressed interest in adding a women’s team in the future, stating that it is engaging with governments and councils to secure the necessary infrastructure for the ALW. However, they have yet to provide a definitive start date, which has left many fans eager for clearer plans. With the player payroll for an ALW team estimated at $500,000 annually—along with travel, coaching, and additional operational expenses—there are indeed significant financial hurdles. Still, supporters argue that the club’s current standing and local popularity could make it feasible with the right support and community backing.
Local federal MP for Macarthur, Mike Freelander, recently celebrated the government’s grant, expressing pride in advancing opportunities for women in sports. Although Macarthur FC has chosen to focus the grant funds on expanding community engagement programs, the pressure remains strong for them to prioritize a women’s team.
In many ways, Macarthur FC’s hesitance stands in stark contrast to the excitement and readiness in the region. The community, which has eagerly supported the Bulls’ initiatives in men’s football, now hopes to see the club step up and provide similar support for women athletes. With calls for inclusion growing stronger and Auckland’s example setting a new benchmark, the question now is whether Macarthur FC will take up the mantle and invest in the region's future by fielding an ALW team.
Read More:
0 Comments