By: Jeremy Magan

For the past four years, NPLW coach Michael Aldred has helped shape Tuggeranong United's women's football program.

As he starts seeing the results of his work, he remains committed to building an attractive structure and culture to help develop the sport he loves.

When he first joined the club, Aldred's goal was to create the right environment to increase the quantity, and the quality, of players wearing green and white.

For a club with a long, proud history of women's football, Aldred knew it started with consistency. 

“At Tuggeranong, girls of all ages train at the same location so they can see each other and meet each other," Aldred said. "Every team plays in the same formation, has the same training drills, so when a player helps another team or goes to the next level, they are less intimidated.”

Aldred also understands the importance of nurturing leadership. 

“I work closely with the two co-captains," Aldred said. "They run the warm-up and the possession games themselves. It is important that we create role models for your younger female participants.

"That is why some players in our squad are also the assistant coach for our U13 and the U17 teams."

The focus on longevity, player development, and a sense of belonging to a club is evident in Aldred's every word.

“We have had the same philosophy for three or four years now," he shared. "We encourage the senior players to come early to see the other squad playing, to help younger elements, and give them feedback.”

Despite the fact that United has failed to make finals in recent seasons, Aldred trusts the process and believes the upcoming shortened season is a huge opportunity for his youthful side. 

“Two seasons ago, we finished last. Last year, we finished six, at the top of our 'mini-league'," he said. "If we can stay healthy, we will challenge the top four this year. 

“With eight games only we might get lucky. It is easier for our short squad. We are a young side with some really strong players.”

Aldred knows what reaching the top four would mean for Tuggies.

“Once you get there, players come and stay," he said. “We have a really talented U17 side. In two years, many of them will be in our first team."

The immediate future is bright for the women’s game and for the players in Tuggeranong.

“We want our competition to be stronger, and there has been some really good innovation, starting with Heather Garriock's winter training program," Aldred said. 

"Players have a clear pathway with Canberra United. If I am coaching you and you end up playing for Canberra United, I have done a good job.”

Tuggeranong United hosts Canberra United Academy on Sunday (19 July), with kick off scheduled for 3:10pm, subject to ACT Government approval.