Integrated football in Perth reached another major milestone on Saturday, with the launch of the inaugural She Can Play competition for women with disability.

Kingsway Football Club and Canning Vale Senior Football Club faced off in Round 1, with the historic opening match ending in a fitting 55–55 draw — a result that felt symbolic of a game built more around connection than competition.

The league has grown from a pilot program run by Sister Up and WA All Abilities in 2024 into a structured season featuring Kingsway and Canning Vale, with matches scheduled every second week through to the grand final on July 11th.

WA All Abilities Inclusion Specialist Andrea Petersen said seeing the players finally run out together this weekend was everything she could have wanted for the girls out there.

“It was awesome seeing it all come together in one united game,” Petersen said.

“It was really cool seeing everyone already so friendly with each other and getting to know girls from the other team as well.”

Designed for women aged 16 and over with disabilities, She Can Play uses modified rules, including no tackling or contact, smaller playing areas, and shorter games to create a safer, more welcoming environment for first-time players.

“There was this boundary of girls not wanting to play Mixed Integrated because they didn’t want to get tackled by the guys,” Petersen said.

“This gives girls who maybe just want to play for fun around friends the opportunity to play without worrying about getting injured.”

For many participants, Saturday was their first experience playing football in a club environment.

Canning Vale coach Stewart Johnston said the excitement on the players' faces said everything.

"Girls who haven't played before are out there really enjoying it — that's what footy's about. Inclusion and having fun."

Johnston added, "We're here to help mentor young people and help them grow. Seeing it all come together today was awesome."

With laughter between opponents, joint celebrations after every goal, and a draw that left both sides smiling after the siren, the opening night showed She Can Play is about far more than football — it’s about confidence, belonging, and giving everyone the chance to feel part of a team.

Written By Oliver Mcfarland