Central Coast Councils Girls in the Game program is a ground-breaking initiative designed to foster inclusivity, reduce barriers, and empower women and girls through sports and physical activities.
This program, starting in 2025, is dedicated to creating safe, welcoming spaces where females of all ages and backgrounds can participate, develop skills, and experience the many benefits of active living.
By offering subsidised activities and equipment, Girls in the Game aims to address the challenges of discrimination and inequality in sports, especially in underrepresented areas. Whether it’s exploring new sports, developing leadership skills, or encouraging lifelong participation, Girls in the Game is here to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to be involved in physical activities.
Girls in the Game is made possible thanks to the Australian Governments $200 million for the Play Our Way program.
Program Overview
The Girls in the Game program features five key initiatives, each designed to cater to specific demographics and provide high-quality, accessible opportunities.
Each activity is designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring that all participants, regardless of background, have the resources and support they need to thrive.
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Ideal for teenage girls, Girls Get Active Days offer school-age females the chance to try a variety of sports in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment. The program is designed to inspire girls to stay engaged in physical activities, particularly at a time when many may drop out of sport.
Participants will experience different sports, engage with female athletes and sports professionals, and learn about potential career or volunteer opportunities in sports. With a focus on diversity, the program ensures that girls from all backgrounds—whether related to race, disability, gender identity, or other attributes—feel represented and welcomed.
Key features include:- Rotating sports activities aligned with the seasonal offerings.
- Guest panels featuring female athletes, coaches, and sports leaders.
- Inclusivity for participants from diverse backgrounds
- Locations: TBC.
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Ideal for girls aged 10 - 16, the Girls Futsal Program provides free futsal opportunities to girls, focusing on building confidence, teamwork, and physical fitness. By removing financial barriers, this program ensures that all girls—regardless of socioeconomic background—can participate in indoor soccer.
With its strong emphasis on inclusivity and team development, the program helps girls gain valuable life skills such as communication, leadership, and perseverance. Additionally, the program creates pathways for long-term involvement in futsal through coaching and officiating opportunities.
Key features include:
- Free futsal sessions with subsidised equipment and uniforms
- Training for coaches, referees, and officials to ensure sustainability
- Supportive, team-building environment for confidence growth
- Location: Peninsula Leisure Centre
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Mum's Basketball offers a unique opportunity for mothers to return to sport while juggling family responsibilities. Held in the mornings after school drop-offs, this program is a great way for moms to stay active, boost their mood, and connect with others in a supportive and fun environment.
By removing financial and time-related barriers to participation, the program aims to create lasting positive changes, encouraging mothers to prioritize their health and well-being and providing role models for their children.
Key features include:
- Drop-in social basketball sessions designed for busy mums.
- Free introductory sessions to remove barriers to entry.
- Subsidised equipment, uniforms, and safety gear provided.
- Locations: Peninsula Leisure Centre, Niagara Park Stadium, Lake Haven Recreation Centre
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Ideal for girls aged 10 - 16, Shred Sisters is designed to increase participation and confidence in skateboarding and scooter riding, specifically targeting girls who may face barriers to entry. The program removes financial obstacles by offering free clinics, equipment, and safety gear.
Through skill development workshops, girls will not only improve their physical fitness and coordination but also build self-expression and creativity in the skatepark. Mentorship from female coaches and role models will further encourage lifelong participation and help girls develop leadership skills.
Key features include:
- Free skateboarding and scooter clinics for beginners and intermediates.
- Skateboards, scooters, and safety gear provided for participants who need them.
- Opportunities to compete in girls-only competitions.
- Supportive and inclusive environment fostering creativity and self-expression.
- Locations: Local skateparks (across the Central Coast)
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Ideal for women of all ages who are non-swimmers, the Adult Learn to Swim program offers women the chance to acquire essential water safety and swimming skills. This initiative is particularly valuable for those who have not had the opportunity to learn to swim due to cultural, financial, or personal barriers.
With the importance of water safety in Australia, this program provides a safe environment for women to develop their swimming skills, boosting confidence in and around water. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for women to pursue training and potentially enter the swim instruction field, creating pathways to employment.
Key features include:
- Free weekly learn-to-swim sessions focused on water safety and survival skills.
- Free swimwear, goggles, and equipment provided.
- Opportunities for training to become certified swim instructors.
- Locations: Peninsula Leisure Centre, Gosford Olympic Pool, Toukley Aquatic Centre
Why Participate?
The Girls in the Game program is not just about sports—it’s about empowerment. By engaging in these programs, women and girls will:
- Build confidence and leadership skills.
- Gain access to opportunities in sports careers, coaching, and officiating.
- Develop lifelong habits of physical activity.
- Find supportive, inclusive communities where they belong.
Whether you're a young girl looking to try something new or a mother returning to fitness, Girls in the Game provides the tools, support, and opportunities you need to thrive. Join us today and be part of a community that’s changing the game for women and girls in sport!