Craigieburn City FC is the first club in Victoria to receive their 2 Star Club Changer rating and has already commenced upskilling coaches, volunteers, and members to complete the online training for children and young people.
The Club received recognition from Football Australia for demonstrating their commitment and dedication to the development of Safeguarding in the Football community and further growth of their Women and Girls in Football.
Joanne Dugo, Craigieburn City FC President said the Club implemented safeguarding measures which built trust among parents, guardians, and the community.
"We are leveling the playing field, removing barriers so that all who are welcomed at Craigieburn City FC have that feeling of belonging," she explained.
"Creating an inclusive environment for women and girls in soccer is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it promotes gender equality and provides equal opportunities for females to participate and excel in the sport. Secondly, fosters diversity, enriches the soccer community with a variety of perspectives, talents, and experiences.
"Moreover, an inclusive environment empowers women and girls, boosting their confidence, self-esteem, and sense of belonging in the soccer community. It also helps break down stereotypes and barriers, encouraging more females to engage in soccer at all levels.
"Ultimately, promoting inclusivity in women's and girls' soccer not only enhances the sport but also contributes to broader societal progress towards equality and acceptance.”
Craigieburn City FC became a 1 Star Club in June 2023 meeting their key objectives and had approximately 20 + players 13/14 and above complete Laws of the Game.
Craigieburn City FC acknowledged the coaching staff required additional support and guidance for their development and to also keep the coaching staff connected with their team. In doing so, Craigieburn City FC connected with Rob Taylor as part of their key objective of the Cub Changer Program. The Club purchased the silver package of the CCC valued at $1000.00 to ensure the coaching staff were supported in their club environment.
In 2023 the club nominated Leah Ambrosini to attend the C License Coaching Course last year to provide opportunities for women to become coaches. This has demonstrated a positive impact within the club to empower, give confidence for more women to become coaches.
The committee is balanced by 50/50 gender balance for season 2024 which has been the club ambiguous aim since collaborating with the Club Changer Program. With the success of delivering member sessions within the club they were successful in achieving more women to take on a leadership role to support the clubs’ overall operations.
Craigieburn City FC will continue to run Social Programs for young people to engage with the game and make them feel part of the community, embrace, and celebrate Female Football Week and roll out the All-Abilities Program at Aston Reserve.
Additional 2 Star Clubs in Victoria:
- Footscray Rangers United SC
- St. Albans Saints SC
- Melbourne City FC
- Altona East Phoenix SC
- North Sunshine Eagles