Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed that all Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) girls’ teams will play in the boys’ National Premier Leagues (NPL) Queensland from 2020.
The decision was made in the best interests of junior female technical development, after FQ pinpointed female football as a major focus.
From 2020, the U14 QAS girls will compete in the U13 boys NPL Development League, the U15 QAS girls in the U14 boys NPL Development League and the U16 QAS girls in the U15 boys NPL Development League.
The changes follow the restructuring of the junior boys’ NPL, as well as NPL reforms that were suggested by the NPL Technical Working Group and approved by the FQ board.
In the 2019 season, the U14 QAS girls’ team played in the U13 FQPL competition, which eventuated in strong development and success. The side were winners of the National Championships in Coffs Harbour.
Football Queensland believe the change will provide the best opportunity for development of young girls in the state. The state federation claim the decision will play a vital role in producing the next generation of young Matildas.
More information on the reforms in the NPL will be detailed in the coming weeks, alongside the current progress of the Technical Working Group.
The group’s previous deliberations are currently available at https://footballqueensland.com.au/technical-working-group/.