South West girls put on a close final

But the Manjimup Imperials taking the win away from the Bridgetown Bulldogs with a goal in the last five seconds of the game.

Bridgetown’s strong team of 32 players, consisting of a record breaking seven female team mates, enjoyed the challenging season and were happy to have rattled the feathers of the Imperial Magpies, who had been undefeated all season.

Bridgetown Junior Football Club President and Year 8/9 coach, Justin Davies, said it was a great season and he was very proud of the team.

“This has been a great season and we really have done so well to have almost taken the flag for a second year running,” he said.

“Our club has been growing so fast and with the extra bonus of having female players joining up, we have an incredible 32 strong year 8/9 team.

“Of course, such big numbers in the one team brings its own challenges, with some players not getting as much time on the field as they would like.

“But it also means we can share some of our players to help strengthen other teams when needed, which also helps keep the competition going.”

Mr Davies said he was amazed at how quickly the football community had accepted the evolution of girls playing in the boy’s competition and was hoping this would quickly lead to a women’s competition in the South West, so they can continue their playing career once they finish year 10.

“The girls can play for an extra year in the year 8/9 competition, as there really is nowhere else for them to go,” he said.

“Now we just need more volunteers to help create a female competition in the South West, so the girls can keep playing, just as our boys do.”

“Female and male players are football’s next generation custodians and they will ensure long-term health of Australia’s greatest game.”