Story courtesy of College Sport Media

The Capital Football Trophy is our leading secondary schools competition for girls in Wellington. Over the past couple of years, three schools have dominated the league: Wellington Girls, Wellington East and Hutt Valley High School. This pattern may continue in 2024 as all three enjoyed significant wins in week one of group play (7-2, 3-0 and 6-0). 

The remaining teams (Onslow College, Queen Margaret, Samuel Marsden, Scots College, and Wellington High School) have the capacity to upset the three pacesetters but their main aim may be grabbing that fourth spot to make this year’s semifinals.

Wellington Girls

WGC are the defending champions. Their pre-season included winning all five of their grading games and scoring a big win over Palmerston North Girls High School (in their annual sports exchange match), which suggests they’re set for another big year.

The team is made up of mixed ages, however they blend together well as a group. A strong defensive line makes it tough to get past them and into attacking situations. They’re fast on the counter, with the ability to transition quickly, this will make opponents cautious to push too many players forward against them.

Player to watch: Daphne Ranta

Daphne is a regular starter for the Karori Central League team and was part of their squad in last year’s National League squad. A midfielder who enjoys high presence on the field and is dominant in winning those 50/50 balls.

Wellington East Girl College

With a strong attack you can expect plenty of goals from this year’s Easts team. They also won all five of their grading games, scoring 23 goals in the process. Easts can attack from anywhere on the field, with a strength in turning crosses into goals.

Player to watch: Captain Lily Davies also plays in the W League but for Wellington United. Her form last year, saw her play the whole game in the Kate Shepherd Cup final and then being selected for the NZ Under 18s. A right sided midfielder, Lily offers pace and an accurate pass. Her leadership will be invaluable to her team.

 Hutt Valley High School

The Hutt side were champions in 2022 and beaten finalists in ‘23. This may be a bit of a rebuilding year for HVHS as they won only two of their grading games, drawing and losing the others. Look for a direct approach, from High School to get the ball quickly to their attackers. If Phoenix rotational goalie, Brooke Neary, gets to play she will further add to the Hutt’s defensive edge.

Player to watch: Jess Owens-Blackmore is an attacking midfielder/winger. She’s played in both of her school’s recent finals. Jesse offers pace outside wide, a cracking shot and a good read of the game.  All this is confirmed with her being the leading goal scorer for her club team, the Petone Reserves, playing in Capital Premiers. 

Onslow College

Onslow College have a proud record in girls’ football and futsal. They have developed many local stars. This includes former student and current Phoenix squad member Olivia Ingham, who was the first female player to join the Phoenix academy. Olivia’s achievements in football were recognised with her winning the College Sport Wellington girl’s player of the year in 2022.

Player to watch: Year 12 student Farina Anchico’s speed and innate ability to score goals, makes her a defender’s nightmare. Columbian born, Farina also plays for Wellington United Diamonds and has previously been selected in Capital Football age grade teams.

Queen Margaret College

The Queens have been a young team in development for the past 2-3 seasons. They have a contingent of players who will be looking to gain rewards from the combinations they have formed. They won all but one of their grading games, which was a 2-1 loss to Wellington Easts.

Player to watch: Lucy Trenberth is another Year 11 player on the up. She plays in the same Petone team as her cousin, Jess Owens-Blackmore. Lucy is an attacking midfielder who can play on either side. Her team benefits from her pace and incredible work rate.

Samuel Marsden Collegiate

Expect the normal competitive zeal from Marsden, this year. Good early signs from the team grabbing a 1-1 draw against HVHS in their grading match and a 3-2 win over Wellington High in the opening round of the league. The girls from Karori have a good mix of player which includes a strong spine of Anika Humphries (defence), Amelie McClintock (midfield) and Phoebe Grey (attack).

Player to watch: Year 11 student, Amelie McClintock is part of the Wellington Phoenix development set-up. She is a strong midfielder, who can hold her own across the field. Amelie’s read of the game is a definite asset for her team.

Scots College

The rise of girl’s football continues at Scots, as their 1stXI makes a return to the Premiership. They no doubt will be looking to replicate the success that their boys’ teams have previously had in College Sport Wellington competition,

Player to watch: Claudia Glantschnig is a winger/striker who possesses all-round skills and is as equally adept at making a tackle as she is in shooting at goal. She possesses an excellent passing game, both in terms of distance and accuracy. Claudia was the recipient of last year’s College Sport Wellington’s Futsal award for girls.  

Wellington High School

It’s been a few years since WHS were last in the Premier division. Their rise can be attributed to the growth in popularity of football in the school. They field a young team, whose enthusiasm is fueled by their coaches Maika Rutyer-Hooley and Kini Mitipelo.  Their coaches are keen for us to look out for positivity with team play and player development, this year and over the next couple of seasons.

Article added: Monday 17 June 2024