Female Football Week kicked off with a bang as Apex Steel WNPL and MiniRoos sides arrived at ServiceFM Stadium for an action-packed celebration of the women’s game. The event brought together players, coaches, officials, volunteers and supporters from across South Australia, all united in celebrating the continued growth of female football.
A fantastic community atmosphere filled the stadium precinct throughout the day, with more than $1,000 raised in donations to support Variety SA.
28 MiniRoos teams opened the festivities with fixtures played across the 5-a-side pitches, showcasing the excitement, enjoyment and inclusiveness that football provides for young players beginning their journey in the game. Smiles, teamwork and plenty of goals highlighted a memorable day for the next generation of footballers.
Between fixtures at ServiceFM Stadium, Football SA proudly presented the 2026 South Australian Female Football Week Awards. This year’s theme, “Developing the Next Generation of Women in Football,” recognised the individuals and clubs making a meaningful impact in creating opportunities and pathways for women and girls across all areas of the game.
The celebrations also marked an important milestone in matchday broadcasting, with Football SA proudly introducing increased female representation in commentary. For the first time, lead commentator Melissa Muscat took to the microphone across both matches at ServiceFM Stadium, further highlighting the importance of visibility and opportunity for women within football media.
For the first time, Football South Australia appointed all-female Match Official teams across three double-header fixtures during the Female Football Week Launch at ServiceFM Stadium.
The milestone occasion saw female referee teams take charge across Apex Steel WNPL and Reserves fixtures, highlighting the continued growth and development of the women’s officiating pathways in South Australia.
As Mother’s Day weekend arrived, clubs across the state took the opportunity to celebrate the incredible contribution mothers make to football communities every single week. From flowers and special walkouts to heartfelt acknowledgements and tributes, clubs showed their appreciation for the dedication, support and sacrifice of mothers involved in the game.
Just over the weekend, Football SA hosted a special leadership and networking event led by Chair of Women’s On Side, Kerry Harris. The round table discussion focused on leadership, connection and empowering women in football, creating meaningful conversations around the continued growth and development of the women’s game in South Australia.
Female Football Week once again highlighted the strength, passion and unity of the football community. Through MiniRoos participation, matchday activations, leadership initiatives and community celebrations, the week successfully showcased the many ways women and girls continue to shape and inspire the future of football.