On Tuesday 3 March our girls’ football teams visited Sky Park, Sydney FC’s elite training facility, as part of the Sky’s Her Limit program. This excursion was a particularly important opportunity for our students in the lead up to International Women’s Day, reinforcing the value of equality, empowerment and leadership through sport.
Students were welcomed by Nicole Ray, Program Manager at the Sydney FC Foundation, who leads the design, delivery and evaluation of initiatives aimed at keeping girls engaged in sport while developing leadership skills both on and off the field. The program focuses on increasing participation while building confidence, resilience and leadership during the adolescent years, a time when many girls disengage from organised sport.
The day provided students with a unique opportunity to meet Sydney FC women’s players Heather Hinz, Jodi Ulkekul and Madison Ayson. The players shared their personal journeys, spoke openly about the challenges within women’s football and reinforced the importance of perseverance, self‑belief and embracing opportunities as they arise.
Students took part in coaching sessions, toured the Sky Park facilities and participated in a Q&A panel that encouraged thoughtful reflection on future pathways in sport and leadership. The experience offered valuable insight into elite sporting environments while reinforcing the broader message of staying connected to sport in meaningful and empowering ways.
We sincerely thank the Head of High School PDHPE Walid Baghdadi for organising this outstanding opportunity for our students. We also acknowledge and thank Melody P, Sports Portfolio Leader and Deputy Principal of the Middle School Mary Duma for attending the excursion and offering her support and leadership throughout the day.
Our gratitude extends to Nicole Ray and the Sydney FC players for generously sharing their time, experience and wisdom with our students. Their commitment to empowering young girls through sport made this a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.
