The Limestone Coast Women’s Football League will host a second season this year, following changes to its schedule.


The local league has in recent years started in January and finished in April.


In the past week, a decision has been made by the Limestone Coast Women’s Football League to move the season to late September to mid-December.


The decision will see the women’s league played alongside the existing and growing Under 16 girls football competition. 


The change will be effective immediately, with Season 9 to begin in late September 2024.


Limestone Coast Women’s Football League President Sarah Ottoson-Crossling said a review of where the season sits had come into play because of competing factors, which include extended summer holidays, public holidays, Easter and now Gather Round.


“The uncertainty and probability of extreme temperatures and the Heat Policy more likely taking effect during his time, has also been raised,” she said.


“We have been consulting with players on a move of season timing for some time.


“While most clubs and players are conceptually supportive of the proposed changes, there are other hurdles that appear which we acknowledge – but as a group, we felt it was time to act on feedback and make the move.”


“The decision to move the season to late September to December, means the women’s football will be played close to the end of the men’s and women’s traditional winter sport finals, however the season opener will be less likely to face the other challenges that present from January to April. A decision on the start date is expected in the next couple of weeks.”


SANFL Head of Community Football Shawn Ford said the decision to adjust the season timing had been under discussion for some time, highlighting the enthusiasm surrounding its alignment with the U16 girls competition.


Ford also said the Limestone Coast Women’s Football League has a great opportunity to benefit from the popularity of the AFLW competition, which will coincide with the LCWFL this season.


“I commend the Limestone Coast Women’s Football League committee for bravely opting to move the season to Spring. Such choices are challenging, yet they open up new opportunities.” he said


“Incorporating U16 girls’ matches as curtain raisers to senior women’s games is establishing a direct pathway for young female talent in the South East to advance into senior football. This, combined with the exposure of the AFLW competition, presents a valuable opportunity to attract new female participants to our game.”


Ford also acknowledged the esteemed standing of the Limestone Coast Women’s Football League within the South Australian football community and believes the change of season will continue to elevate the profile of the competition


“The Limestone Coast Women’s Football League is recognised as one of the most competitive female football leagues in the state. Teams travel from Mundulla to Casterton, Kongorong, and various points in between, facing significant travel demands, yet the players consistently show up and are well supported by family and friends,” he said.


“Being a female footballer in the South East is thrilling right now. With ideal weather, minimal interruptions, and top-tier talent wrapping up their season as the SANFLW pre-season begins, the timing couldn’t be better.”