HERE”S TO HER FUTURE!
Everyone on the committee and coaching group at the Mt Barker United Soccer Club are today celebrating a major boost to its women’s and girls’ program after being announced as a successful recipient of the Power of Her – Infrastructure and Participation Program grant recently.
The Power of Her Program was established to build on the legacy of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, providing funding for facilities, equipment and programs that support girls’ and women’s sport across South Australia. The program aims to address key challenges and barriers that can limit female participation and help create lasting opportunities for girls to engage and remain involved in sport.
The club and committee have been working hard behind the scenes as part of their girls and women’s focus to look to the future and the time and dedication needed to put together this grant has been outstanding. The successful grant will allow Mt Barker United to further strengthen pathways for girls in the Adelaide Hills, supporting participation from entry-level soccer through to ongoing development in a safe, inclusive, and welcoming club environment.
Club representative Elle Mawby said the funding will have a direct and positive impact on girls across the region.
“This grant allows us to create an inclusive soccer pathway that nurtures girls’ talent and supports them at every stage of their soccer journey,” Mawby said. “It helps remove barriers to participation and ensures girls in the Adelaide Hills feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged to stay involved in the game. This is especially important during the early teenage years, when girls’ sport experiences its highest dropout rates, and we are committed to tackling this challenge head-on.”
The funding will enable the club to improve resources, equipment and development initiatives within its female program, helping to enhance player experiences while supporting volunteers and families.
President Tash Raven said female participation at the club has continued to grow in recent seasons, with more girls showing interest in playing and developing their skills.
“We’re seeing more girls wanting to be part of soccer, whether they’re new to the sport or looking to grow their confidence and ability,” they said. “This grant helps us respond to that growth and provide better opportunities for girls to enjoy the game and stay connected long-term.”
Mt Barker United currently has places available across several girls’ age groups including senior women’s teams and welcomes players of all abilities, from beginners to those seeking further development in a positive, community-focused environment.
With the support of the Power of Her grant, Mt Barker United Soccer Club is well positioned to continue growing girls’ soccer and contributing to a strong and lasting legacy for women’s sport in the Adelaide Hills.
