Female Football Week Spotlight: Lesley Potgieter & Hayley Walsh – Woonona Football Club
Some people become the backbone of a club — and for Woonona Football Club, Lesley Potgieter and Hayley Walsh are exactly that.
Recognised as Legends of Female Football, both Lesley and Hayley have dedicated more than a decade to supporting and growing the game within their community.
What began as supporting their children on the sidelines quickly evolved into something much greater. For over 10 years, they have been a constant presence at Woonona — week in, week out — bringing energy, encouragement, and a sense of community that has had a lasting impact on everyone around them.
Both Lesley and Hayley have managed countless junior teams over the years, playing a key role in shaping the early football experiences of many young players. Over the past five years, they have also taken on the significant responsibility of coordinating the Ocean Park canteen — an essential part of match days and a major contributor to the club’s fundraising efforts behind the scenes.
Their contributions, however, extend far beyond these roles.
Lesley plays an active role on the club committee and within the Club Changer initiative, continuing to drive positive change. She has also independently established a can and bottle recycling program, supporting local animal charities and demonstrating her commitment not only to football, but to the wider community.
Hayley has been a passionate advocate for female football, consistently working to ensure that girls and women within the club feel supported, valued, and recognised. From organising junior and MiniRoos presentations to helping deliver senior events, she has played a key role in bringing people together and creating opportunities for female players to thrive.
Together, Lesley and Hayley represent everything that community football is built on — dedication, generosity, and a genuine passion for the game.
Their impact goes far beyond the roles they hold, and Woonona Football Club would not be the same without them. Their recognition as Legends of Female Football is both fitting and well deserved
