A PENINSULA indoor soccer team is celebrating after booting their way to a jaw-dropping victory in a Go Soccer Mums tournament grand final on 12 April.
The tournament is part of a program backed by Football Victoria that encourages people of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities to get involved in soccer. There’s no pressure – just the goal of getting active together and having fun along the way. The ladies from the Peninsula Futsal team not only won all games in their pool but also triumphed 14-0 in the final against Mt Martha.
Sunny Shaw, who led the team of seven players to victory, said it was a great thrill as it was also their first time playing in the tournament. “We played a total of six games that day, including the grand final against Mount Martha in Knox,” she said. “Our opposition were predominantly Melbourne teams such as Collingwood, Brunswick and Bentleigh. So for us and Mt Martha to get through to the final was an amazing achievement to represent soccer on the peninsula.”
Shaw, a mum of two, said they were always on the lookout for new players, no matter what skill level.
They play all year round with weekly sessions held at Rosebud Basketball Stadium. She said participants can meet new people and learn basic football skills in a judgement-free environment.
Shaw, 38, said their team members, who range from their 20s to 50s, all got involved playing soccer at different stages in life, with herself starting in high school.
Shaw cited her major soccer influence and coach, Steve Williams, a prominent soccer figure, that has always supported women’s soccer and continues to be a significant role model.v “We would love to see more people join Peninsula Futsal. It’s a fun and friendly indoor sport to join, that runs all year long. All ages and abilities are welcome.”
A trial session is free, with weekly sessions costing $20 for an hour. While there may be no coaching as such, “you just get in there and improve each time,” Shaw said. “We’re just very cohesive as a team, playing to each other’s strengths and abilities. We would love more people to join.” She said they are looking forward to hopefully defending their title in the final to be played in November.
For more information, visit Peninsula Futsal at: www.peninsulafutsal.com.au
First published in the Mornington News – 22 April 2025
