ANYONE who says women’s Australian Rules Football is not as competitive as the male version has never seen Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School take on Presbyterian Ladies College.
The two schools have a rich history of competing that dates back to 2005 in honour of teacher Gary Johnston.
Mr Johnston was a football-loving maths teacher who taught at both schools during his career including 16 years in Bunbury.
When he passed away in 2004, the two schools were keen to find a way to remember the man who gave so much of his time and knowledge to others.
And with that, the Gary Johnston Memorial Cup match was born.
The Perth side took out the first match by two goals but the local girls hope to turn the tables this time.
Mr Johnston’s family are expected to attend when the two schools contest the cup on March 29 as part of the Centenary of Women’s Football weekend in Bunbury.
Western Australia hosted the first women’s football game in 1915 with Bunbury hosting a match six years later.
A number of events will be held across the weekend including women’s football clinics, a match featuring the WA women’s elite squad and a satellite exhibition of female football memorabilia.
Keep reading the Bunbury Mail between now and March 28 and visit bunburymail.com.au for more about the women’s Australian Rules Football centenary celebrations.
