POWER OF HER - SUCCESS STORY

20 October 2025

August 16, 2025 marked a historic day for Volleyball South Australia, with back-to-back champions crowned in the SAVL League Men’s and Women’s divisions. For the first time in SAVL history, the women’s match was officiated by an all-female panel.

This achievement was made possible through the Power of Her Program, supported by the Office for Sport, Recreation and Racing. The initiative aims to upskill women and girls in coaching and officiating, creating lasting pathways for female leaders in the sport.

The impact of the program is already being felt. Of the nine referees involved at this level, five were participants of the Power of Her initiative. They represent just a fraction of the 60 women and girls who have gained accreditation through the program to date and 100 accreditations total.

Volleyball SA Competitions Lead, Nicholas Mallia, praised the milestone and the growing involvement of women across officiating and coaching.

“It’s amazing to see so many women and girls looking to take up refereeing and coaching in the state,” Mallia said. “The women and girls who represented the wider community have been high performers throughout the season, and this is a reflection of their dedication and hard work. Thank you so much to the Office for Sport, Recreation and Racing for your support through the Power of Her grant.”

Volleyball SA referee committee chair and one of the Line Judges at the SAVL Women’s League Grand Final Jacalyn Kraemer-Pickering said “The Power of Her program was a great support throughout the season, offering coaching and development opportunities to new female referees. It was great to see so many of our program participants involved in appointments across the SAVL finals series and the SAVL league women’s grand final.”

The all-female officiating panel marks a significant step forward in the visibility and recognition of women in volleyball, setting the stage for more opportunities and achievements in seasons to come.

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Get in touch with Volleyball SA through info@volleyballsa.com.au.  