Gaining Ground WA Mentorship Program

A Western Australian-first program that sustains participation of girls in sport. Designed to create generational change at clubs throughout the state.

We link girls, 12-14 years old with senior women in their club they can lean on and look up to. Senior women who mentor get coaching experience and step into roles as coaches and board members at their clubs.

Consistent role model presence develops reassurance and trust among junior players and creates a safe place to share concerns, at an age that research shows girls are most likely to drop out.

  • Girls’ anxiety levels have decreased and confidence increased.

  • Girls have role models at their club. They have senior players they can share concerns with and receive guidance and aspire to be like.

  • Senior women have become mentors, which is empowering them to coach and join committee roles.

  • Social connection is being created across the club.

How Gaining Ground WA is supporting women and girls

  • “I never would have put my hand up to coach if it wasn't for Gaining Ground. There was a mentorship session in 2023 that really set my decision in motion. I remember driving home from the pitch feeling so elated and proud of my impact and thinking, I want to coach.” - Jarrah Smith-Taylor, Gaining Ground WA mentor and Fremantle City FC player and coach

  • “Gaining Ground has helped us as parents and coaches start talking to the girls about how to stay positive on the pitch, and started the conversation within our club about focusing on building player wellbeing and sense of connection between all players.” - Penny Hoath, Murdoch Melville Football Club and Women's Soccer WA

  • “One of the most impactful aspects of Gaining Ground is the emphasis on providing opportunities for young women and girls to develop their own leadership skills, step into leadership roles, take ownership of their sporting experiences and become advocates for themselves and their teammates.” - Ange Stannett, Captain, Fremantle Dockers AFLW

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Support women and girls to attend our wellbeing workshops

Just $25 will support a girl to learn new skills to support her wellbeing. Help Gaining Ground WA reach more women and girls.