Football Australia and Football West acknowledge Mandurah City Football Club as the Club Changer, Club of the Month for their devotion in building their women and girls offerings by setting a foundation for their volunteer base.
Mandurah City Football Club became a Club Changer in 2023 and successfully became the first Football West club to obtain their 2-Star status in August of this year. Through strategic outreach efforts, Mandurah City FC have successfully expanded in many aspects of their club since the implementation of Club Changer. Seeing many positive outcomes, the club has seen it to be instrumental in fostering a thriving environment.
"The program's (Club Changer) emphasis on inclusivity and diversity has resonated positively within the community, attracting a diverse group of participants who feel welcomed and valued within our football family." - Mel Loreto, Female Football Director
Mandurah City FC, through utilising the Club Changer program, worked towards growing their volunteer base using key resources supplied to 1 Star Club Changers. Hosting a Level 4 Referee course at the club, Mandurah City FC had 26 participants, and have furthered this growth by obtaining funding for 10 females to complete their referee course in the future. The club also set a key objective to increase the numbers of female coaches and mentors. Successfully achieving this, Mandurah created a leadership group made of the captains from each senior team to be future mentors for their junior players. Along with this, the club appointed a Female Football Director whose role includes mentoring girls to become coaches; supplying opportunities in assisting in the MiniRoos and MiniTillies kick off programs - this in turn helping to grow their coaching base.
"Mandurah City have been exemplary in the work they are doing as a club. The growth of the club has been supported by the resources Mandurah have used through Club Changer and will lead to a sustainable and strong club." - Karen Hennessey, Club Changer Lead
Now working towards their 2-star objectives, Mandurah City FC is looking at building their volunteer base even further. Appointing a Volunteer Lead, the club looks to focus on recruitment, appreciation and greater understanding of the roles of volunteers. Further aiming to make their volunteer workforce feel part of a supportive and inclusive environment where they can contribute their time and skills to enrich their football club.
"Volunteering at our football club, is not just about giving. It's about having that fulfillment of being part of a community." - Mel Loreto, Female Football Director
"Every single person involved in the club is a volunteer. They have a massive impact on, our club" - Gary Byrne, Club President
Congratulations Mandurah City Football Club!