History created with the launch of the inaugural interstate ‘Challenge Cup’

This weekend, the Manly Warringah Australian Football Club women’s squad will travel to Gungahlin Enclosed Oval, Canberra to take on the Gungahlin Jets in the inaugural ‘Challenge Cup’.

After putting plans on hold in 2020 due to COVID-19, the two Clubs are now ready and raring for the clash, which is an initiative of shared Club sponsor and community football advocate, Hugh Zochling of Hadley Green Investment Group.

“We have proudly sponsored both Clubs for a number of years and have always been overwhelmed by the positive impact these clubs-make on their own local communities, particularly in promoting diversity and equality,” said Founder & Executive Director of the Hadley Green Investment Group, Hugh Zochling.

“It’s such a great evolution of the partnership to be able to foster our own inter-club championship that turns the typically pre- season scratch match into something worth fighting for.”

The Challenge Cup was conceived to give female players who are new to the sport of AFL, some solid pre-season field experience ahead of the regular season scheduled to commence 10 April 2021, while building sporting fraternity.

“The level of interest in women’s AFL is literally awe-inspiring with new players turning up to training each week,” said Joy Leaper,  President of Manly Warringah.

“But it’s not just about turning up to training, it’s about getting some actual game-day experience and this is exactly what the Challenge Cup will provide to our new female players.”

Chair of Gungahlin Jets, Rachel Dobing, says the fixture is a testament to the clubs investment in female football.

“We are so thrilled by the commitment of our women’s squad during this pre-season and have had so much interest in our senior women’s program that we have been able to enter a division two team for the first time in club history,” she said.

“The ability for our new female players to get out on the park prior to the season commencing and getting the real game-day experience will allow them to settle some nerves as well as enjoy their first game of footy.

“We are so excited to offer that through the Challenge Cup.”

 Bragging rights and the Challenge Cup Trophy will be held with pride at the winner’s home ground, until of course the Club’s reunite in 2022.

When: Saturday 20 March 2021

Time: 2:00pm first bounce / 3:45pm Trophy Presentation

Where: Gungahlin Enclosed Oval, Warwick Street, Gungahlin