AUSC Women.
Albury United Ladies Teams: A Legacy of Triumph and Inclusivity.
In 1978, the Albury United Soccer Club made history by forming its first female football team, marking the beginning of an inspiring journey for women’s soccer in the region. Over the years, the Albury United Ladies Teams have achieved remarkable success, breaking records and fostering a culture of inclusivity within the community.
How did Albury United ladies teams begin?
The Albury United Ladies Teams originated in 1978 as one of the founding members of the Albury Wodonga Women’s Soccer Association, alongside 3 other teams. This association later evolved into the Albury Wodonga Football Association in 1980. The initial years laid the foundation for a legacy that would define women’s soccer in the region.
Who were the pioneers and key figures in the early years?
Under the guidance of life member Harry Wright in 1990 and 1991, the team achieved significant milestones by clinching both the league and cup finals. Angela Iannotta, a standout player during this period, later made history by scoring Australia’s first-ever World Cup goal against China in 1995, solidifying her place as a soccer icon (you can read more about Angela in our News articles).
What achievements highlight Albury United ladies teams’ success?
Fast forward to 2010, the Albury Wodonga Football Association formed a division 2 Women’s competition. Albury United Soccer Club fielded a team coached under Dave Lansdown and has continued to be a part of the competion every year since. The Division 2 side has gone on to be one of the most successful Div 2 Women’s sides in the competition currently sitting at number 1 on the table.
2010 also kicked off some of the most competitive football for the Div 1 women’s team coached for several years under Dave Smith winning the league title. Tony Cigana commenced coaching in 2016 for seven years, he led the women’s side to break the 30-year drought and seal the league and cup double in 2022.
Who are the recent coaches and what successes have they achieved?
In 2023, co-coaches Cade Webb and Tracey Dalitz continued the legacy, finishing second on the table and securing a cup victory. The grand final day photo of the team became one of Border Mail’s Mark Jesser’s top ten pictures of 2023, showcasing the team’s impact both on and off the field.
Albury United celebrate with the cup, 2023. Picture MARK JESSER
How does Albury United ladies teams foster inclusivity and community engagement?
Beyond the victories on the pitch, the Albury United Ladies Teams actively work towards inclusivity and community engagement. The players serve as role models for junior players, contributing to coaching and committee positions, thus creating a supportive environment that goes beyond the game.
The Albury United Ladies Teams stand as a testament to the resilience, skill, and inclusivity within women’s soccer. From its humble beginnings in 1978 to the recent successes in 2023, the team continues to inspire both players and fans, leaving an indelible mark on the soccer landscape in Albury and beyond.
Click here for more about the history of Women’s football in Australia.
AUSC celebrate at Lavington Sports Ground. Picture JAMES WILTSHIRE (2022)
