During National Volunteer Week 2021, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the hard-working, dedicated volunteers in our football community.
Jasmine Hirst was nominated for a feature by Fiona Kelly, who praised Jasmine’s tremendous dedication to growing the game for women & girls.
“Jasmine heads the soccer program and is the Vice President of the Darebin Falcons Women’s Sports Club, she has had an extraordinary impact in just over 10 years with the club,” Fiona said.
“She is a passionate advocate for women and girls in football and major influence in growing the club’s participation rates. In the football program’s first year, there was only 19 registered senior players, but under her leadership that has grown to 471 players across all levels.
“We believe this makes the Falcons the biggest girl’s and women’s’ soccer program in Victoria.
“In 10 years, she has grown Darebin from a single team to 36 junior teams, 79 Miniroos players, and two senior women's teams.
“Though we have our teams training at a number of venues, Jasmine is out on a pitch almost every day of the week making sure the program is running smoothly. Most importantly, she ensures the girls are having fun and getting the opportunity to make their mark on football in Victoria.
“In 2020, Jasmine launched the Young Referees program at the club with the vision of increasing the number of female referees in Victoria. Under the program, girls aged between 14-18 receive training and access to a referee mentor to develop their skills. Once they build their confidence, then they are given the opportunity to referee U8-U11 girls matches at the club.
“Jasmine's vision for the club and for women's football is inspiring to all of us who work with her. She is committed to creating a football environment that welcomes everyone and has committed so much of her time and effort to achieve this.”