Melbourne Victory to run women’s pathway programs

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Melbourne Victory will be conducting two women’s football pathway programs, linking with their A-League side.

The A-League Women’s Pathway Program (ALW PP) is for talented female players between U14-U19. Known as a ‘training only environment’ it is based out of Maribyrnong Sports College on Tuesday evenings, where coaches look at technical skill development related to the Melbourne Victory Women’s philosophy and curriculum. These are weekly sessions are designed to go alongside young players’ club training and matches, not to replace them completely.

This program serves its purpose through being Victory’s pathway to their ALW squad, where they signed three players onto scholarship contracts and have invited another 10 players as ‘train on’ players. All 13 of these girls took part in the ALW PP program.

The ALW Girls Accelerator Program (GAP) matches the ALW PP with coaching methodology, curriculum, coaching standards and oversight from A-League Women’s staff. This is a training only program designed to supplement the development work that is being provided through club or school affiliations.

The ALW GAP age groups will be a centralised program, delivered from Rowville Secondary College on Wednesday evenings.

Both programs will be managed by Melbourne Victory A-League Women’s Head Coach, Jeff Hopkins – as well as Assistant Coach, Gareth Turnbull, plus a range of qualified, independent coaches.

Phase 2 runs for 18 weeks, with two terms of nine weeks. The first session will be held on Tuesday July 11 (ALW PP) and Wednesday July 12 (GAP) with the final session of the phase being early December.

A selection session for ALW PP and Gap will be held, with registrations open for a limited time.

Details for the selection session are below:

ALW PP and GAP selection session
Tuesday June 27
Robert Barrett Reserve, Maribyrnong
10am – 2pm
Click here to sign up and register for the session

Image credit: Football Victoria

The Celebrating Ability event will take place at The Home of The Matildas on Saturday, December 6.

The event promises an interactive day of learning and connection, featuring group workshops, the launch of Football Victoria’s new Disability Football Framework, and club education sessions with Aspect to promote inclusion across all levels of the game.

The Celebrating Ability event will offer a completely free, in-person opportunity for clubs to explore the space and take part in the celebration of the International Day of People With a Disability (IDoPWD).

The day will include:

Launch: Football Victoria will officially unveil its Disability Football Framework on December 3

Workshop: Clubs can learn how to start and run an All Abilities program

Education Session: Delivered by Football Victoria’s partners, providing practical guidance and support

Engagement: Attendees will gain insights from guest speakers and have the opportunity to connect with other clubs, coaches, and administrators

Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025

Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm

Where: The Home of the Matildas, Sports Drive, Bundoora, 3083

Registration: Registration is required. Please use the link below to secure your place

This event offers an excellent opportunity for clubs across Victoria to engage, learn, and celebrate ability. Clubs are encouraged to share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested.

Image credit: Macarthur Bulls FC

Macarthur Bulls FC has confirmed the beginning of a two-year strategic alignment with Alvaro Logistics Group, who will join the Club as a Senior Partner.

Under the agreement, Alvaro Logistics Group will serve as the official back-of-short sponsor, with its logo prominently displayed on the Bulls’ Isuzu UTE A-League Men Home and Away kits.

Alvaro’s support highlights a shared dedication to growing the game and creating positive opportunities within the community. Through this partnership, the club will engage more closely with locals, support programs that nurture participation and talent, and champion initiatives that bring fans closer to the heart of the club.

Founded in 1978, Alvaro Logistics delivers Contract Management and Warehouse Solutions through a custom-built fleet, offering tailored services that drive fast, effective results. Their expertise is proven through long-term collaboration with clients across industries such as steel, FMCG, plumbing, and container handling, supported by comprehensive distribution facilities.

Mario Alvaro, Director of Alvaro Logistics Group, stated that the company is proud to join forces with a club that embodies its values.

“Macarthur Bulls FC represents the heart and ambition of South West Sydney,” he said via press release.

“As a local business, we’re passionate about giving back to the community that’s supported us for so many years. Partnering with the Bulls allows us to contribute to programs that inspire the next generation and bring people together through football.”

Mark Jensen, Chief Commercial Officer of Macarthur Bulls FC, said the partnership represents mutual interests to driving meaningful growth and impact in the region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Alvaro Logistics Group to the Bulls family,” he said via press release.

“Alvaro Logistics Group are a proudly local business with deep ties to South West Sydney, and their support will help us continue growing football from the grassroots up. This partnership is about more than sponsorship – it’s about investing in people, community, and opportunity and supporting a team the is truly invested in its South West Sydney.”

Through their joint efforts, they will foster participation, support regional development, and deepen the bond between the club and its supporters.