'We support each other. We encourage each other. We look out for each other.' - The Waspettes and new beginnings.
Newly formed walking football team, The Waspettes, share the story of how they were formed, the work they've done to find sponsorship and their hopes to be an inclusive, supportive club for all women.
The Waspettes were originally formed by a group of ladies in April this year who had played together in another team. We had all become great friends through walking football, so we decided to build our own team and, most importantly, an inclusive community where everyone could feel welcome, supported and valued.
Our very first training session was amazing. We felt such a sense of achievement and belonging, along with a real commitment to each other to make this work. Fast forward to today and we’re around 20 members strong!
Our players range from their late 30s through to their 60s. Some of us played football for fun when we were younger, while others had never kicked a ball before! That’s what makes our team so special — everyone has their own story and their own reason for being here.
We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have four sponsors supporting our team, and we’ve recently submitted a grant application to our local council. We’re keeping everything crossed that we’ll receive some much-needed equipment to help us continue to grow.
Like any new team, we’ve had our challenges. Finding somewhere to train has been one of them, and while we’ve been lucky so far, winter could prove difficult. Our dream is to eventually have a permanent home ground that we can truly call our own.
But the Waspettes are about so much more than football. We’re a sociable bunch and, despite only being together a short time, we’ve already had plenty of get-togethers. We’re currently planning our pre-season party to keep us connected, have fun and continue building those friendships.
And the adventures don’t stop there! Some of our team are heading to a tournament in Malaga this November, and we’re already looking forward to the football, fun and friendships that will come with it.
One of the things we’re most proud of is the connection we have with one another. We know each other well enough to notice when someone might be having a difficult time or struggling with a disability or personal challenge. It’s in those moments that you really see what being part of the Waspettes means. We support each other. We encourage each other. We look out for each other. That’s the kind of inclusive and supportive environment we want to promote throughout walking football — because being part of a team can make such a positive difference to people’s lives.
We want to continue being a fun, supportive and inclusive team, while improving our football, developing our skills, competing in tournaments and, of course, hopefully bringing home a few trophies!
Most importantly, we want to attract more ladies who are looking for a sense of belonging, friendship, confidence and the chance to learn a new skill.
You don’t have to be a footballer to be a Waspette.
You just need to be willing to give it a go.
The Waspettes — football, friendship and belonging.
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