Northern Region Football has launched its Gender Equity Action Plan, a commitment to driving positive change in football. 

“We’re going to make great progress through our action plan – we want more girls playing football, more women in leadership roles, we want to make sure those in the game feel valued and visible and we also want to make changes to the facilities and environments where girls and women play,” said NRF CEO Laura Menzies.

“The plan is all about being accountable to our community, showing our intentions and how we’ll be measured. It’s how we’ll continue to build a bright future for all girls and women in football.” 

• Read NRF's Gender Equity Action Plan

The plan shows outcomes, measures and key activities for Leadership, Governance and Planning, Participation and Development, Value and Visibility, Resources and Opportunities and Facilities, areas that make a difference to creating a positive change. 

One sign of the growth and engagement is the 1,058 new girls and women who registered to play in the 2024 season – NRF’s Gender Equity Action Plan has targets to grow the women’s game in all areas, including: 

• 40% women in leadership and governance roles across NRF and clubs
• 10,000 female players registered in NRF competitions in 2026 season
• 50% of women’s LOTTO NRFL teams have a female coach
• Produce four regional football facility plans, including recommendations that address needs of girls and women

“We always talked about World Cup legacy happening before, during and after the tournament,” said New Zealand Football President Johanna Wood. “You can see that Northern Region Football has a plan they’re ready to progress, and that’s really important.” 

The plan was launched at NRF’s annual Wāhine in Football event, which brings people together to celebrate women leaders, the community and allies.   

“This plan builds on the vision and determination of the wāhine toa who went before us, playing, creating opportunities and laying the foundations for today – we stand on your shoulders,” said Laura Menzies. 

NRF aims to build on the huge progress clubs have made in gender equity, through recognising that girls and women are crucial to what they offer and making space so they can play, participate and lead in clubs.

“Many clubs are offering a fantastic experience and meaningful opportunities for girls and women, using the World Cup’s momentum and growth to change the game for generations to come.” 

“It’s an exciting time to be part of our game – this is a collective call to action,” said Laura Menzies. 
 

Article added: Friday 13 September 2024