Eight Auckland clubs have become the first to sign a new charter to promote gender equity in football clubs.
The clubs have partnered with Northern Region Football to launch the NRF Gender Equity Charter, a public commitment to growing inclusiveness in football clubs, which was launched at NRF’s Wahine in Football event on July 28.
The first clubs to sign the charter are those with facility upgrades and legacy requirements through FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 — Auckland United, Bay Olympic, Birkenhead United, East Coast Bays, Ellerslie, Mangere United, West Coast Rangers and Western Springs.
“The charter is really exciting for the whole football community, and what better time to launch than during a FIFA Women’s World Cup in our backyard?” NRF CEO Laura Menzies said.
“By committing publicly to equity, this group of clubs are committing to positive change.
“Making our game more inclusive will help it grow sustainably and better reflect our diverse communities.
“We know there are clubs doing great work in this space; this is about working together to lift equity throughout our game in a strategic way.”
The charter is about benchmarking where clubs are now, where they want to get to and the steps needed, with a focus on:
- Leadership — Leadership and governance that reflects and supports gender equity.
- Participation — Equitable participation and development opportunities, including juniors and youth girls-only football.
- Visibility — Make girls and women visible, showing their value in our club.
- Resources — Equitable resources and opportunities for girls and women.
- Facilities — Fit for purpose facilities that meet the specific needs of girls and women in our club.
“Every club has its own unique qualities and challenges, and we’ll work closely with this group to provide the support they need. Legacy is about more than lights or pitches. We’re certain this mahi will leverage the buzz around women and girls’ football we have now to grow our game for the future,” Laura Menzies said.
NRF will work on this kaupapa with more clubs, and encourage clubs interested in learning more about the equity charter to contact their NRF Area Manager.
Main photo: Elyssa Fahndrich — unsplash.com
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