Football South Australia is pleased to announce the expansion of the Women’s State League to a 10-team competition as of the 2023 season with the inclusion of Croydon FC and Sturt Lions.
Croydon FC and Sturt Lions expressed their interest to enter into the Women's State League and have demonstrated a commitment to the growth and development of girl’s and women’s football.
Football South Australia is committed to increasing pathway opportunities for females in South Australia to play at the elite level and is excited to welcome two new teams into the Women’s State League competition in 2023.
Further details will be provided to all clubs in relation to the scheduling of the competition for the 2023 season.
Kimberley Conte, Head of Women's World Cup Adelaide and Legacy said:
An important part of the Football South Australia Legacy plan infrastructure for Women and Girls, two teams, Croydon FC and Sturt Lions, have completed important upgrades that provide playing opportunities for women and girls including quality pitch space, gender neutral change rooms and improved lighting. These upgrades ensure health and safety measures are met and contribute to a safe and inclusive club environment. Congratulations to both clubs.
Maria Hagias Vice Chairperson of Croydon FC said
Croydon FC is very excited about the opportunities a new facility will provide for the whole community. It will provide inclusive facilities and a sense of belonging for all players and supporters. Its opening will coincide with the WWC in 2023 and we hope will attract many girls and women to our sport and increase our numbers of women and girls teams
The new Croydon FC facility at Regency Park will open its doors for Season 2023.
As a club we are proud of our inclusive history which has witnessed an increase in women's and girls participation in football. We hope this will continue to increase with the new facility which brings the whole club together in one place, creating a real connectedness and community spirit.
The new grandstand at Croydon's facility at Regency Park
John Vander Veeken, Sturt Lions President is excited for the recently upgraded Karinya Reserve to host WSL football for 2023 and beyond.
Our clubroom is a welcoming place for all people and families. The change rooms and gym area are designed to cater for women and girls and there are three separate changing rooms to provide a level of privacy for playing groups. Having a home base has already engaged the local community and activated our club members that will foster much growth in female football.
Karinya Reserve recently has had major change-room and facility upgrades, including a brand new artificial pitch.
I'm incredibly proud to be a part of an inclusive club. The more people playing for our club with a whole range of diversity is a goal of our Club Board. Football for all.
