Island Bay United is committed to ensuring that our female players get the most enjoyment out of football. We are working hard to build more opportunities and to build pathways into our successful women’s club.
Girls can choose to play in the mixed league on a Saturday, or to play in the Girls Only League that Capital Football runs on a Sunday, or both. Playing in both means paying two registration fees, but we offer a discount to reduce these costs.
For girls aged from 5 years old, the first opportunity to play football is as part of Fun football in the mixed grades on a Saturday.
Girls Only Sunday League (GOSL) grades are based on age turned in the calendar year and span two years. In 2026 Island Bay United will enter teams in U9, U11, U13 and U15 leagues.
Girls Only Sunday League matches are full of energy and focused on ensuring that all players have fun and learn new football skills. Like mixed football on Saturdays, each team requires a volunteer coach, manager, and referee.
Teams are generally organised to enable players to play alongside people they know and who have a similar level of experience and commitment. There are no trials, and beginners are welcome at any age.
Teams play 5 a-side including a goalkeeper on a small pitch. Girls Fun Football Festivals will take place weekly.
Festival days will run with the following format:
3 x 15 minute games, with a 5 minute break between games, what this would look like for a 9am start:
Teams play 7-a-side inluding a goalkeeper and rules that are close to the full version of the sport e.g. corners and throw-ins. They play one 50-minute game each Sunday, and most teams organise a midweek practice with their volunteer coach. A parent volunteer is required to referee. The field size is approx 50m x 30m.
Teams are 11 a-side on a full field with full sized goals. Rules align with the full version of the sport. Some girls at this age will take part in both college football (played on Wednesday afternoon) and club football. Girls can opt to training several times a week under the clubs Talent Development Programme (TDP) or participate in a social team where coaches are encouraged to hold a midweek training. Parent referees are required.
Girls have the option to play down one grade in mixed football on Saturdays until U14 grade. Please ensure you select which league(s) your daughter would like to play in and if they wish to play down a grade. If you are unsure, please contact us to discuss the best option.
If you have any questions please contact our GOSL coordinator