This year will see the first ever Women’s All Stars fixture as part of the Football South Coast All Stars day to be held on the 25^th of February at Crehan Park.

An FSC Women’s team will be coached by Albion Park boss Richard Davis and take on the Illawarra Stingrays at 6pm while the FSC Men’s team, coached by Bulli’s Ben Smith, will face the South Coast Wolves at 8pm.

The Women’s All Star game will replace the Youth Grade All Stars game used last year and will display some of the region’s best female talent.

“I’m honoured to be asked to coach and I’m really looking forward to coaching some of the girls from these other teams and see how we go,” said Richard Davis.

“The women’s game in the Illawarra has got a lot better in the last four or five years and the Stingrays are a class act, so it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase the Illawarra women’s soccer and how far we’re coming.

“We don’t tend to promote women’s soccer and this is a great way of displaying it so hopefully it can continue in the future.”

The Illawarra’s Women’s First Division has produced two of New South Wales’ most successful clubs in Albion Park and Tarrawanna and the All Stars event will give some of the competitions best players an opportunity to go up against a higher calibre opponent.

The Illawarra Stingrays Technical Director, Brett Wallin, is looking forward to the occasion and sees a lot of benefits for a younger generation in the All Stars game.

“I’ve always encouraged people to get out and watch the women’s game and it’s great to see them getting a bit of recognition in an event like this,” said Wallin.

“It’s always good for the young girls to have a pathway and this sort of thing highlights the possibilities for young players.

“I think it’s a great concept that unites a community down here and it’s fantastic that the girls are being involved.”

The All Star day will also see the FSC Men’s All Stars face off against the South Coast Wolves.

Last year, the men’s team were downed 3-1 but Wolves boss Nahuel Arrarte knows the game isn’t just about the result.

“For me it’s more about showcasing the talent in the region,” said Arrarte.

“It’s an important day for the area and I’m sure with the women’s game as well it will be fantastic to see.

“Leading into the season it’s a good way for us to finish our preseason and what better way to do it than against some of the best local talent.”

Ben Smith, who coached Bulli to the League Championship in 2014, is hoping the event will see the same success as last year.

“It was well received last year and the local boys really enjoyed playing in it,” said Smith.

“It’ll be good for me to see how some of the other boys operate and take a bit from their experiences.

“It’s definitely a big challenge but there’s a lot of talented boys in the local Premier League and I’m sure they’ll give a good account of themselves regardless.

“Hopefully the fans from all the clubs can come out and support the event.”

Teams will be announced before the end January.

Story by Julian Keith