GSFLW 2024: Denmark-Walpole showing strength through community and culture ahead of new women’s season

Denmark-Walpole coach Glen Burton expressed optimism for the future of women’s football at McLean Park, with strong numbers and off-field support. The Magpies have been a strong contender in past Great Southern Football League Women’s seasons, making the last two finals series including a grand final appearance in 2022 where they lost to Railways. They lost the preliminary final last year to the eventual premiers Royals but Burton said the black and whites were looking primed for another strong season. “We have got plenty of numbers at training and the squad looking pretty good,” Burton said. “They are always keen for a grandy (grand final). “But they’re also keen just get out there and play the football and give the women’s football a really good plug. “I think that’s more so what it’s about, just representing the women’s football.” The Magpies will boast some superb on-field talent again, including co-captains Emma Henderson and Sophie Coates, but Burton said every individual who takes the field is a crucial cog in the machine. “They’re all key players as far as I’m concerned, they all have a role to play,” he said. “I don’t think you can look at key players in this team. “Everybody’s got their role to play, that’s just what I look at it, everybody’s equal.” Burton said the stability and support provided by new president Sam Keenan is building a positive environment for his players to thrive in. “We’re really trying to get it (culture and community) out there on public media,” he said. “Our new president, Sam, has really thrown himself into the club. “I’m hoping everybody will back him 100 per cent. “The amount of time he’s put in so far has been huge and I hope everybody gets in and supports.” The Magpies’ first game will be the final match of the triple-header on Saturday on their home turf of McLean Park against North Albany. Their only other home game is in round five against Albany on Friday, March 1, at 7.45pm. DENMARK-WALPOLE 2023 finish: Fourth Captain: Sophie Coates and Emma Henderson Coach: Glen Burton Key players: Emma Henderson and Sophie Coates Prediction: After playing finals football the past two seasons, the Magpies will again be thereabouts come April. They have a favourable draw to begin the season so expect them to launch out of the blocks early.