MAITLAND JUNIOR FOOTBALL CLUB

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—Last month the Maitland Junior Magpies Football Club was awarded the Club Development Program Club of the Month National prize of Club Changer. The club's development program has been recognised for its success in enhancing female participation at a local level. The Club's action plan commits to creating a pathway for children through to adults to play football at the one club. Maitland Juniors has more than 1,000 players ranging in age from five to 65‑years‑old, which is the largest junior football club in Maitland. As a result of the club's investment in growing the sport for children and adults a third of the players are now female. The club are working towards the goal of achieving the target of 50 percent female participation. Starting with less than 100 female players a few short years ago, the club is now approaching 400 with a large increase in female coaches as well. The Club Changer Award recognises clubs who build welcoming and inclusive cultures, and the Maitland Junior Football club has done just that, congratulations. Congratulations to Club President Ian McDonald and the committee on such a fabulous achievement!