Teams
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Canterbury United Women
Southern United Women
Central Football Women
Capital FF Women
Auckland United Women
Western Springs Women
Eastern Suburbs Auckland Women
Northern Football Women
Auckland FF Women
Waterside Karori Women
Waikato/BOP Football Women
Wellington Phoenix Women Reserves
CF Wellington United Women
Northern Rovers Women
West Coast Rangers Women
Ellerslie Women
Wellington United Sapphires Women
Norwest Women
Claudelands Rovers Women
Upper Hutt City Women
Powerex Petone Women
Tawa Women
Coastal Spirit Women
Waimakariri United Women
Wellington United Diamonds Women
Brooklyn Northern United Women
Forrest Hill Milford Women
Three Kings United Women
Western Suburbs Women
Wikipedia - New Zealand Women's National League
The National League (previously known as the National Women's League) is the top-level women's football (soccer) league in New Zealand. The teams were run by regional federations until 2021, when New Zealand Football started to move to club-based football.
History
This section's tone or style may not reflect the encyclopedic tone used on Wikipedia. (September 2022) |
The National League was founded in 2002 and ran until a hiatus at the end of 2007. The league resumed in 2009 with five federations participating, as well as the national women's under-19 team development squad. As of 2024, the league has eight teams, one run by each federation.
The league ran in a pure round-robin format in 2002 and 2003. Playoffs started in 2004, with the second and third-placed teams competing in a one-legged semi-final. The winner of that and the first-place team then played in the Grand Final to decide the overall champion.
Following a hiatus in 2009, the league was divided into two divisions—a Northern Conference and a Southern Conference, each comprising four teams. At the end of the season, semi-finals were held, where the winner of each division played against the runner-up of the other division. The victorious teams then competed in the Grand Final. However, in 2013, the league reverted to its previous format.
From 2010 to 2014, the league was held in the summer, in contrast to previous seasons, which were held in the winter. During this period, the league was restricted to players under the age of 20, making it a national women's youth league. The restrictions were lifted in 2015, and since then, the league has been an unrestricted women's league.
New Zealand Football looked to move the National Women's League to a club-based competition (similar to the men's competition) by 2020. The governing body also hoped to expand the number of games each federation plays in 2018.
The New Zealand Premier League Women (NZPLW) is the premier women's soccer competition in New Zealand, showcasing the best female talent in the country. Established to elevate the profile of women's soccer, the league features a dynamic mix of established stars and emerging talents, all competing for glory on the pitch.
**Format and Structure:**
The NZPLW operates on a league format, where teams compete in a round-robin style, facing each other multiple times throughout the season. The league typically consists of several clubs from across New Zealand, each representing their region with pride. The season culminates in a thrilling playoff series, where the top teams battle for the championship title.
**Development and Growth:**
The NZPLW is committed to fostering the growth of women's soccer at all levels. It serves as a vital platform for players to develop their skills, gain exposure, and pursue opportunities both domestically and internationally. The league also emphasizes the importance of youth development, encouraging clubs to invest in grassroots programs that nurture the next generation of female soccer players.
**Community Engagement:**
Beyond the competition, the NZPLW is dedicated to engaging with local communities, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring young girls to participate in sports. Through various outreach initiatives, the league aims to create a supportive environment that champions female athletes and advocates for gender equality in sports.
**Exciting Matches and Fan Experience:**
Fans can expect thrilling matches filled with skill, speed, and passion as teams vie for the championship. The league encourages a vibrant match-day atmosphere, with family-friendly events, community activities, and opportunities to meet players. Whether you're a die-hard soccer fan or new to the sport, the NZPLW promises an exciting experience for all.
Join us in celebrating the talent, determination, and spirit of women's soccer in New Zealand as the NZPLW continues to grow and inspire future generations of athletes!