Perspectives in women's football (part 1) "We currently do not have a coach, we train ourselves" - Experiences of women and girls playing football in Australia, a cross-sectional survey study.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the characteristics and lived experiences of women and girls across all levels of football in Australia.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

METHODS

Participants included women and girls aged ≥12 years registered to play competitive club football during the 2023/2024 season. A convenience sample was recruited through targeted emails, social media, and physical fliers. The questionnaire, developed with input from players, coaches, and administrators, had a mix of open and closed-ended questions exploring the characteristics and experiences of playing football in Australia. Data were collected between May and September 2024, with data from closed-ended questions analysed using descriptive statistics, whilst data derived from open-ended questions were analysed using conventional content analysis. Responses were mapped to the Socio-Ecological Model.

RESULTS

211 players were included (mean age 28.5 (standard deviation = 13.7) years), 112 (53%) with tertiary education, and 158 (74%) with a family member who also played football. Key findings spanned the Socio-Ecological Model with players reporting varied access to training, medical support, and facilities, with 21% indicating unequal access to resources compared to men's teams. Most players had men as coaches, with mixed preferences for coach gender. Factors preventing players from reaching their full potential included: competing priorities, family responsibilities, health issues, financial burden, coaching quality, and environmental factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights ongoing challenges and inequities faced by some women and girls footballers. Addressing issues including unequal access to resources, coaching, and facilities is crucial to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment that enables women and girls to reach their full-playing potential.