The UC Stars Football Club are full of women across four State League divisions all juggling busy work and study schedules with their love of football.
Some players from the State League three and four teams took some time to reflect upon their on-the-go lifestyles and the inclusive community culture that the club provides.
Many have hobbies and commitments outside of the club that fill up their time away from football including other sports, busy social lives, work, and study.
“Outside of the club I do kickboxing. I try to get most of my work done between my shifts so I can make time for trainings in the evenings,” Lena Christopherson said.
“I study at UC and also work part-time at a solicitors office,” another said.
Balancing full-time study with trainings and games may sound like a difficult task but those at the club see football as their escape from their busy lifestyles, one describing it as her ‘happy place’.
The club is described by the players as a friendly environment that welcomes anyone and everyone to play football across all divisions. It is also a club rich in diversity that leads to the formation of life-long friendships and fond memories.
“I have so much fun with the girls I play with, and even though it is freezing at training I’m always really happy to be there once I get there,” Lete Dewsbury said.
“I love how multicultural it is as well as how welcoming and loving all the women who play for UC are. The club has a very big community feel and a very friendly vibe.”
“I love that I’m able to meet so many lovely people through the club. It’s very inclusive and anyone can join. At UC, anyone can play with the club which makes it so diverse with abilities and people,” Lucy Harpley commented.
A sisterhood is created amongst the women at UC to make for a more enjoyable experience. Each team sets aside time for activities where teammates can bond and further grow these friendships which evidently translates onto the field.
“I love the people at the club, the way we all hang out on Sunday and watch everyone’s games and the way everyone supports everyone is great,” Tyree Senaratne said.
“The social events and training sessions where everyone trains at the same time and place allows for greater connectedness and cohesion between teams.”
As a result of the club welcoming people with all sorts of skill sets, a focus is placed upon the development of players which leads to personal growth and improvement.
“Although I’m not a UC student, I thoroughly enjoy being able to create lots of new friendships at the club. I learnt a lot about football over the season and can’t wait to come back next year,” Lexi Bull said.
“This was my first season with UC, and I really enjoyed the camaraderie and general good vibes of the club. Everyone is extremely supportive of one another and always willing to help in one way or another.
“As a club, we set a high standard for the season which really helps to push us both at training and at games to play the best football we can.”
Words: Sonia Emanuel