The 2008 calendar year represents a landmark year for Women's Football in New Zealand. Western Springs now has more females aged 13+ than males in the junior ranks, a significant figure considering the growth of the women's game. FIFA President Sepp Blatter famously said "The future of football is feminine" and this year certainly puts this point into perspective.

The first major event is in August where the Football Ferns will be taking part in the Beijing Olympic Games (subject to NZOC Approval), having beaten PNG thanks to Springs striker Renee Leota's goal. The Senior Women's Team embark on arguably the greatest sporting journey of all, taking part in the world famous Olympic Games.

In October/November New Zealand itself gets the chance to soak up the football carnival atmosphere of a FIFA World Cup Tournament as it hosts the first ever U17 Women's World Championships. The Young Football Ferns who are coached by Springs coach Paul Temple have already qualified as hosts of the tournament and will create footballing history as they take part in the first ever U17 Women's World Cup match at North Harbour Stadium on October 28th 2008. This event represents a unique opportunity for both players and spectators alike and will bring global exposure with an estimate TV viewing audience of 70 million over 195 different countries.

Following on from New Zealand our U20 Team will be hoping to make lightning strike in Chile at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in November/December. After a very credible performance in Russia 2006 with narrow losses to the European champions and a famous draw with Brazil, the Junior Football Ferns will be looking to go one better in Chile.

There are numerous Western Springs players looking to make the National Teams for these landmark events towards the back end of 2008, the aspirations of the Springs girls are echoed by players all round the country which makes for a very entertaining club season with so much on the line. Spectators and supporters can also be a part of all this by purchasing tickets for the U17 Women's World Cup from the club at fantastic discounted rates.

When you get a chance to come down and support the Springs girls on a Sunday please do, despite the familiar surroundings at Seddon Fields if your lucky to catch a derby encounter against Three Kings or Lynn Avon you will not only see a great game of football but up to 18 International players on the pitch at any one time, the only other place that happens is in the English Premier League......