Ōhope Football Club is branching out in 2026, forming a women’s team for the season, thanks to the initiative of club member Tacy Richardson.

Richardson has been involved with junior football within the club and after seeing the men play wondered if they could also have a women’s side.

With a bit of ringing around and sourcing of players, Ōhope have locked in a women’s team for the Baywide competition.

Richardson said their team featured players from all walks of life.

“I have always played football growing up and my kids all played football in the club. I was like. why not try and start one. We are rebranding the club as well, so it is open to all, not just kids and men.

“Some players have played before and are returning after time away, some are completely new to the game and some have transferred from other clubs in the area.”

Richardson said creating the women’s side involved some hard work.

“It’s exciting and nerve-wracking. A lot of things went through our mind, like were we going to get the numbers. There were a lot of hurdles, especially for women, and getting sponsorship, but we’ve just got enough and are keen.”

Players from Ōpotiki have jumped on board.

“We even have a couple of younger high school girls from Ōpotiki who have no women’s team to play for.”

Richardson said Kawerau had again formed a ladies’ team.

“We played them in a pre-season match, and it was exciting to see ladies from all walks of life come together and play football.”

She’s hoping the Ōhope team will be more than a one-year wonder.

“We want it to be a permanent here at the club. We’ve had heaps of support from the men’s team and committee about getting established.”

As for goals within the team; they are hoping to improve every game.

“A key for us is enjoyment and simply getting better.

“We know we’re not going to win a competition, but we want to be able to create a pathway for those coming through in the coming years but just learning to play together and focusing on what our strengths and weaknesses are. It could mean moving people about and trying different things.”

For the first couple of games this season, ahead of their new uniforms arriving, they’ll be sporting bright orange kits that were formerly the men’s.

“We’ve gone for a blue and aqua look on our uniforms, giving the ladies something a bit different. It will be nice to feel like a proper team when we get our uniforms.”

Richardson said she had the likes of Susi Peterson help take some trainings early on.

An ACL reconstruction and a serious ankle injury mean Richardson is likely to be coach and manager until she can play in a year or two.

“Everyone on the side is getting along so well and we’re all enjoying each other’s company, which is great to see.

“It’s special being the first for the Ōhope club.”

Richardson said it was exciting when they officially put the email through to say they had signed up.

Rebel Sport has donated gear for training, while Precision Drone Spraying has sponsored the new uniforms.

As with any team, Richardson said they would welcome more players.

“We’d love to have some more players. We have just enough now, but it would be great to get a few more.”