Celebrating Female Football Week: David Rowan Speaks on Gender Equality at Game Changer Forum
The Essendon Royals Soccer Club was honoured to have Club Secretary and Life Member David Rowan participate in a panel discussion at the recent Game Changer Forum hosted by La Trobe University. As part of the ongoing celebrations for Female Football Week, Rowan shared insights into the club’s journey towards achieving gender equality in football.
From reinstating the club’s women’s program in 2014 to boasting a large contingent of female footballers who proudly represent the Royals today, our club has consistently made strides in its commitment to ensuring equal opportunities and inclusivity for all its members.
David Rowan discussed the importance of inclusivity and respect in the club’s ethos, highlighting how the Royals have always been about family. “If only the blokes are there, there’s not much of a family,” he stated during the panel discussion. This sentiment extended to recognizing the significant contributions of the mums who have always been there, from manning the canteen to bringing kids to training, their role in creating the Royal’s family environment was acknowledged.
Rowan also underlined the club’s commitment to treating every player equally, regardless of gender. “You are a Royals player. Male or female doesn’t matter. You all get the same,” Rowan said, emphasizing the club’s philosophy that every player should have the same opportunities, from training facilities and coaching to team gear.
He pointed out that this commitment is visually evident as every team, from the young girls to the senior VPL women, wears the same training gear. This unity in appearance fosters a sense of belonging and equality, reinforcing that everyone is part of the Royals family.
Rowan also spoke about the club’s efforts to integrate younger players with the senior teams, highlighting the shared support during match nights. Everyone, from the boys and girls to the adults, supports the men’s and women’s teams equally, creating an environment where everyone feels part of the process.
In conclusion, Rowan stated, “The women and girls at our club are not just here as an also-ran, but they are, we are part of a family, part of the group.” This sentiment encapsulates the club’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion, transforming the outlook of the club and making it a true family for everyone involved.
For those who missed the event, David Rowan’s contribution to the forum can be found below.
Our journey towards gender equality in football is a continuous one, and we’re proud to have voices like David’s leading the way. We will continue to strive for an inclusive and equal environment for all our members. We are all Royals, and we are all family.