Bass Coast and Hawks unite to empower girls in footy

THE Bass Coast community is teaming up with the Hawthorn Football Club to champion women’s footy and inspire more girls to take the field.

In an exciting development, Bass Coast Shire Council has expanded its partnership with the Hawks which will see pre-season training camps in the region.

The first pre-season camp involving the Box Hill Hawks’ VFL and VFLW teams will be held this weekend at the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve.

The partnership will also see coaching clinics for junior female footballers, a new women and girls coaching forum, as well as programs to encourage girls to pursue elite sport.

Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve said the region is proud to encourage more girls and women to play football.

“This is the second year of our partnership with the Hawthorn Football Club which not only celebrates footy in Bass Coast, but gender equality,’’ Cr Le Serve said.

“Bass Coast has a commitment to gender equality, inclusion and diversity.’’

The highlight of the season will be a VFLW and VFL double-header at Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve. The date will be announced in coming weeks and entry will be free.

Last year’s double-header attracted a crowd of more than 3000 and was the first game for competition points at this level ever played in Bass Coast.

Box Hill Hawks General Manager, Pat Clancey said “The Box Hill Hawks are delighted to extend our partnership with Bass Coast for another year, further supporting our commitment to the growth of Women’s football in the Gippsland Region.

Our VFL and VFLW players and staff are excited to get back to the region this weekend for our Preseason Camp, incorporating a super clinic for kids and coaches forum for all local coaches.”