DFA Women vs St Mary’s Eaglevale
First game in 18 years
February 2024, the DFA Women faced off against St. Mary's Eaglevale in a historic match that marked the official launch of the DFA Women's program. Despite the challenges encountered, the team managed to assemble its first roster with the assistance of a few hearing player substitutes.
The support received from St. Mary's Eaglevale was truly remarkable. Recognizing the vision of the DFA Women's program, the club extended their unwavering support. St. Mary's Eaglevale president, James Kelly, played a pivotal role in getting the program up and running. Defender Jayde Marie Dickerson, who plays for St. Mary's Eaglevale and is also a member of Deaf Football Australia, introduced James Kelly to the program.
Inspired by the vision shared by DFA Technical Director James Lambert, James Kelly committed his full support to ensuring the success of the game. Although the DFA Women ultimately lost the match with a score of 5-3, the true victory lay in the spirit and determination displayed by the team.
Witnessing the joy and camaraderie among the players as they stepped onto the field together was a truly special moment. The DFA Women had planted the seeds for a positive and inclusive environment, with the guidance of their leadership team and the unwavering support of the DFA staff.
The future holds exciting possibilities for the DFA Women's program. The team's dedication and enthusiasm will undoubtedly lead to continued growth and success in the years to come. The DFA Women are poised to leave a lasting legacy in the world of women's deaf football, inspiring future generations of athletes to pursue their dreams and defy limitations.