Girls AFL teams flourish at junior Magpies

WHAT began with just four determined players in the 2022 season has grown into a flourishing girls AFL program at Port Macquarie Junior Magpies.

Four years later, the club’s girls program continues to strengthen, with the 2026 season showcasing the dedication, skill, and passion of a group that has grown both on and off the field.

Following the under-17s girls’ 55-17 recent win against the Lower Clarence Suns, the team continues their 2026 undefeated campaign.

“Our journey has had a few bumps along the way, but has ultimately been a story of determination and passion,” said Matilda Coleman.

“We started in 2022 with only four registered players, a determined coach, and team manager.

“The unsuccessful push for players resulted in the girls splitting off into the two under-13 mixed teams.”

2023 was a stronger year for the girls. The club fielded their first girls team, being the under-14 youth girls.

The team took out their first win in round three, against South West Rocks Dockers.

They ended the season winning four out of their 12 games, a strong effort for the club’s first year of having an all-girls team.

“In 2024 the league changed the age groups from even numbers to odd numbers, giving most clubs the opportunity to field the same team,” Matilda said.

The team slowly built up numbers in 2022, 2023, and 2024. In 2025 the team had the most female registered players, as the club was able to register an under-13, under-15 and an under-17 youth girls’ team.

“Although the under-17’s had minimal numbers, many of the under-15 girls made an effort to support their peers by playing up in this age group after their own game,” Matilda said.

“Some of the under-13s players also played for the under-15 girls. This ensured the club could field all three age groups each week.”

Matilda said the 2026 season had brought a great deal of joy to the under-17 girls so far.

“With filling all the registration slots, we are able to field a full team each week,” she said.

“We welcomed a few new recruits, but the core of the team has played together since 2023.

“This is evident through the close knit team, and the strong bond we share.

“The skill level has improved over the years, with four of our girls part of the Sydney Swans Academy, which is a great achievement, and has many pathways.”

After the team’s most recent win – a resounding 55-17 defeat of the Lower Clarence Suns – the team finds itself undefeated with seven wins from seven games.

They are now hoping for a successful finals campaign.

“It was another solid effort from all the girls, with a few standout efforts,” Matilda said.

“Credit to the Suns, who put up a good effort the whole game, especially outscoring us in the third quarter.

“We went out in the last quarter with a good mindset, and came out as clear winners.”

From just four players in 2022 to a thriving girls program today, the growth of female football at the Port Macquarie Magpies is something the entire club can be proud of.

“We thank the continued commitment of our players, coaches, volunteers, families and supporters,” Matilda said.

“No matter what the remainder of the 2026 season holds, this group’s journey is already a testament to how far the program has come, with many exciting years still to come.”

By Matilda COLEMAN, Port Macquarie Junior Magpie