THE New Norfolk Soccer Club’s women’s team is shining for a second year. When the side returned to the field in 2022 for the first time in 15 years, it marked a positive step towards increasing participation in sports by local women.
The club, known as the Panthers, encouraged everyone interested to get active and have a kick no matter their prior knowledge of the sport. The team prides itself on supporting each other and creating a welcoming environment on and off the field.
This year we lost a few players and gained some new ones but the positive atmosphere remains the same and coach Rebecca Lynd continues to provide expertise and constant encouragement.
TOP PHOTO: New Norfolk’s Kiara Aker tacking a Huon player in their recent game at Tynwald Park.
In Round 1 we were delighted to play against another team new to women’s social football, Huon Valley. They were under-manned but still provided a very close contest. Round 2 was a bye while Round 3 was against the ever-tough Metro but played on the newly renovated synthetic surface at the home of football, KGV. This was an intense battle with Metro finally running out winners.
In last week’s Round 4 game against Kingborough Lions, the Panthers had their first victory of the season, winning 6-2. This is a huge start early in the season for the Panthers. The Lions showed determination and never gave up, despite not having any substitutes.
Our new members, Renee Birchall, Beka James, and Jazmin Moate scored the six goals, with all three scoring in the first half. Jessica Stromberg was a standout the entire game and her high corner kicks on point. One of these kicks allowed Beka to get behind the bounce finding the back of the net.
Jaz’s fast feet and ballwork split through the defence in the second half, allowing her to slide the ball past the goalie for her second goal of the game. Beka ended up stealing the show kicking three goals across the entire game.
Round 5 is a home game at Tynwald Park against DOSA at 12.15pm this Sunday.
MADDY CHISHOLM
