The
Coastal Breakers GAA Club was formed in 2007 by sisters Angela and Jacqualine
Williamson. At the time, they had several Australian friends who were involved
in other sports but were interested in playing Gaelic Football. Further, they
saw an opportunity to expand the local Western Australia Women's
GAA competition from 5 to 6 clubs.
Since their
foundation they have continued to enter at least one team into the WA GAA
competition and in 2009 player numbers increased to enable them to enter two
teams, the first Club to do so in the Women's League.
Coastal Breakers is very much in support of the growth and development of Gaelic Football
in Australia, not only as a place for Irish expats to enjoy their home sport,
but as a great sporting alternative for Australian women.
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| Coastal Breakers at half time during a night game |
The
majority of the Breakers’ playing group have always been Australian. However, they
are gradually recruiting more Irish which provides for a great cultural mix. They
currently have 31 registered players, 7 of whom are Irish natives. These girls
are all committed to a life in Australia in the medium to long term and have
all made valuable contributions to the development of the Club.
In their
7 year history the Breakers are yet to secure a Premiership Cup, but have come
close with two Grand Final appearances.
Coastal Breakers players have been well represented on various Western Australia Ladies teams; Lisa
Bryant, Angela Williamson, Christina Kreppold, Jacqualine
Williamson, Kezia Jones, Amanda Crean, Taryn Priestly, Jessica
Valvasori, Alexis McLeod, Gillian Power and Kate Reeson. Five
of these girls have also received Australasian GFHA All Stars.
The
Coastal Breakers train on Monday (Creswell Park, Swanbourne) and Wednesday
(Brittania Reserve, Mount Hawthorn) nights. If you are interested in joining
them contact Angela Williamson on thecoastalbreakers@gmail.com
For more
information visit their Facebook page or website
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