Thompson said NCG and FC Nelson had previously run independent football programmes, creating an element of competition for resources and available time of the students, which is not unusual for a small region. The two will now work together to create a sustainable footballing environment within which young women can participate, succeed and be supported. FC Nelson junior portfolio holder Craig Smith said the club was keen to remove the barriers to females playing football, whether it be affordability, lack of parent availability or involvement and limited teacher time. “Our coaches will work with the college to make football fun, hopefully forever.”