Living legacy
Two years ago, when T&T hosted the U17 Women’s World Cup, there was talk about a legacy programme for women’s football and T&T becoming the home of women’s football.
Two years later and much controversy after, the legacy would have been lost if not for the efforts of a few dedicated individuals who have kept women’s football alive.
In 2009, Women’s League Football (WoLF) was launched, it was a huge success, until 2010 when it all fell apart and local coaches and players were of the belief that it was just another element of the U17 preparations.
In 2012 WoLF was revamped and it brought out 19 teams consisting of 420 registered players in two divisions. They enjoyed increased media coverage, a spot on Synergy TV every Wednesday and did their own marketing via social networks.
They fell short of funding for the Big Four final, but a dedicated Women’s Technical Director, Even Pellerud, seeing the commitment of those in his charge offered to sponsor the finals.
League Public Relations Officer, Jinelle James expressed her pleasure on the 2012 season, explaining that it was a huge success compared to past seasons and the goal now is to improve it in 2013.
“We, the Executive, feel this was a good start for us and hope to build on this by trying to attract more sponsors for the 2013 season.
“The media has been really helpful and we have been more visible than ever. We know however that we still have lots of work to do with regards to improving the administration and the overall branding of the league,” she said.
James and the WoLF team have already begun their preparations for 2013.
Real Dimension Rips WoLF Apart
Real Dimension Football Club copped the FA and League title in this year’s Women’s League Football (WoLF) competition.
Captained by national player, Janine Francois and boasting national players the likes of Dernelle Mascall, Natasha St Louis and Tiana Bateau, among others, Dimension eased to victory in both tournaments. They won all but two games in the league – losing to Tobago FC and drawing with Trincity Nationals before sealing the FA trophy thanks to a last minute goal by St Louis.
Step-by-Step, lead by pro player, Ahkeela Mollon emerged as winners of the Big 8 competition and First Division in the league.
Malick City – Empowering Women Through Sport
Malick City is more than just a football club.
Since its inception, MC has been the home of many national footballers including national captain, Maylee Attin-Johnson and national defender Anastasia Prescott.
Team founder, Abdul Salick believes that in order for Trinidad and Tobago to develop, its women must be empowered and sport and education go hand in hand in doing so.
He has therefore invested his time and resources in creating an outlet for women to empower themselves while building the community of Malick, Barataria.
“To empower a nation, education is key,” says Salick. “The young women of Malick City Football Club are examples of powerful women – footballers and scholars, who will set the example in their sport and their community.”
Prescott shared Salick’s sentiments explaining, “The club is about building something special. It’s about comfort and shedding light on a stigmatized community.”
“Women love football just like men do, but a blind eye has been turned towards us to an extent. This year the league made an attempt to resurrect the life of women’s football in T&T and Malick is just one piece of the puzzle in assisting in the development of women in football.”
