Shona MacInnes named VAFA Women’s Football Club Development Officer

The VAFA is delighted to announce Shona MacInnes will take up the role of Women’s Football Club Development Officer ahead of the implementation of the VAFA’s inaugural women’s competition in 2017.

Shona will be responsible for assisting member clubs in the implementation of a women’s team among a host of related roles under the umbrella of women’s football.

Upon accepting the position, Shona told VAFA Media she is excited about the prospect of her involvement in women’s football and believes the Amateurs is an exceptional environment to help foster its growth and development.

“The VAFA’s community friendly environment will really attract women to play there as it is important for women in football to feel welcome and to feel safe,” she said.

“Having worked with volunteers over a long period of time, I know how capable and dedicated they are and look forward to working with clubs in their bid to field women’s teams.”

Shona has a strong history in community football, having previously sat on the Board of Melbourne University Football Club as well as spending two years as President of Kew Junior Football Club. During her time with Kew, Shona oversaw the integration of young girl’s as players.

“10 years ago we introduced girl’s playing and what I’ve witnessed since is those women going on to play Division 1 in the VWFL and winning premierships,” she said.

“What that says to me is that if you provide a welcoming and safe environment where women want to go and feel like they’re not going to be criticised or ridiculed, they will come and the competition will grow.”

Wasting no time settling into the role, Shona has already planned her first point of call in her new position.

“The first thing I do is go out and talk to all the presidents of the clubs,” she said.

“I’ll make contact with them, develop a relationship and gauge where they’re at in terms of fielding a women’s team.”

Most recently, Shona has worked as a Business Manager for Momentile Pty Ltd and has a keen interest in Australian Rules football and golf.

Please join us in welcoming Shona and wishing her every success as part of the VAFA community.