Why Choose Football?
Women’s football has come a long way in the past few years
Anyone can Play, Anywhere
Not only does football offer tremendous health benefits, it is a relatively simple sport to catch onto – all that is needed is space and a ball
Women’s football is one of the fastest-growing sports in Australia, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. Following the incredible success of events like the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup hosted in Australia and New Zealand, participation in women’s football has reached new heights, inspiring countless girls and women to get involved in the beautiful game.
This growth is reflected in the traditional winter season competition, where 42,710 new players joined in 2023—an 8% increase from 2022 and surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels.
The sport isn’t just about competition; it offers significant health benefits, promotes physical fitness, and provides opportunities to build lasting friendships and a sense of community. Women’s football also teaches valuable life lessons, including teamwork, resilience, and leadership, making it a fantastic choice for personal and social development.
As opportunities expand at the grassroots and professional levels, Australian women’s football is thriving more than ever. Programs, leagues, and pathways are available for everyone—from first-time players to those aspiring to represent Australia on the international stage. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, make new friends, or pursue a professional career, there’s a place for you in women’s football.
Join the movement and experience why football is the world’s game!
Besides being loads of fun, here’s the top benefits of Women playing Football:
Improved Cardiovascular Health
The dynamic nature of football—alternating between walking, jogging, and sprinting—keeps the heart rate elevated, offering excellent cardiovascular benefits. Research shows that the interval-based running common in soccer is more effective for heart health and weight management than steady, continuous jogging.
Boosts Bone Health
As women age, bone density naturally declines. However, the weight-bearing activity involved in playing soccer, such as running and sudden changes in direction, helps stimulate bone strength and maintain healthy bone density. Regular participation in football is an excellent way to support long-term bone health and keep your skeletal system strong and resilient.
Builds Muscle Strength
Lower body strength is required for kicking, jumping, tackling, twisting and turning and also forms the foundation for explosive speed.
Upper body strength is required for shielding the ball, holding off opponents, throw-ins and also contributes to overall power and explosiveness.
Women who play or train build strength by using the whole body.
Lowers Body Fat and Improves Muscle Tone
Football is a great sport for burning fat because it works the muscles and your heart in different ways.
As a general workout, Women playing football burn more calories than typical workouts because players are forced to switch between using the aerobic and anaerobic energy pathways.
Promotes Teamwork and Sharing
While fitness goals are generally very personal, Girls and Women can all benefit from sharing common goals with others who push them towards them. The lessons that players learn on the field translate to the rest of their lives and the camaraderie teammates share in unparalleled. The ability to work with others to reach a common goal is powerful when related to everyday life- in other words, join a team!
Increased Social Interaction and Support
Most women cite time constraints as the main reason for not working out. However, being on a team brings women together in a supportive manner and makes them set aside time for physical exercise. Joining a team leads to more commitment and actually following through with fitness and health goals.
Enhanced Coordination
Football fosters improved coordination through the dynamic transitions between walking, running, and sprinting. Players develop body control through complex movements such as dribbling, turning, and passing, all executed at varying speeds and directions. Additionally, hand-eye coordination is refined as goalkeepers kick the ball or block a shot, requiring precise timing and skill. These movements contribute to overall agility and balance, which are vital both on and off the field.
Boost Confidence, Self-Esteem, and Reduce Anxiety
Engaging in football helps players develop physical strength and endurance, fostering greater confidence both on and off the field. This newfound self-assurance extends beyond sports, positively influencing performance in school, career, relationships, and daily life.
Additionally, like all forms of exercise, football stimulates the release of endorphins—natural mood boosters that reduce stress and anxiety. Research consistently shows that regular physical activity is an effective way to combat symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to overall mental well-being.
In addition to the physical benefits of playing football, the sport also offers significant emotional and mental advantages.
Football fosters self-confidence and self-esteem, while also enhancing resilience, mental toughness, and problem-solving abilities.
Beyond these, it boosts social skills, self-discipline, and a sense of responsibility. Whether playing with friends for fun or competing in a more structured setting, football provides a holistic workout that nurtures both your body and mind, promoting overall well-being.