Wellingtonian Emma Evans, a prominent figure in women’s football, is urging people to create a lasting legacy for football and women’s sport as the city prepares to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™. Evans, who is currently the Women’s Football Manager at the Oceania Football Confederation, believes that the power of football lies in its universality, as anyone can play the sport. She hopes that by building excitement and enthusiasm for football across the city, it will inspire people to get involved in various capacities, from playing to volunteering and coaching.
Football is often referred to as a universal language that connects people worldwide. Even in the midst of rivalries, there is still a sense of connection to something greater that brings people together. Football can be played by anyone, from kids playing with makeshift balls to individuals participating in their local clubs. Evans believes that the passion generated by the Women’s World Cup can lead to increased participation in the sport and encourages people of all skill levels to contribute to the thriving football community.
While it is fantastic to see more people interested in playing football, Evans highlights the importance of supporting roles in ensuring the sustainability and longevity of the game. She encourages individuals to reach out to organizations such as Capital Football or their local football federation to explore the diverse opportunities available in their respective areas. By creating career pathways within the sport, Evans believes that the legacy of football in Wellington and across New Zealand can be further strengthened.
Evans has had a personal connection to football throughout her life, despite facing injuries that eventually required surgery. The support she received allowed her to remain involved in the game, even if she couldn’t actively participate as a player. She started coaching high school teams while still in high school herself. Reflecting on her own experiences, Evans emphasizes the transformative power of football and the role it played in shaping her career.
Beyond her contributions in New Zealand, Evans has implemented projects across the Pacific that will make the FIFA Women’s World Cup broadcasts available in people’s homes, as well as designated fan zones. Already, this development has generated significant anticipation and inspiration among the many football fans in the region, fostering community connections and creating pathways for aspiring players.
As a Wellington native, Evans never imagined she would witness the tournament being played in her own city. She looks forward to people experiencing the true magic of the game she loves and hopes this event will serve as a catalyst for a new generation of football enthusiasts. Evans cites the support and enthusiasm that New Zealanders exhibited towards the Black Ferns, the country’s national women’s rugby team, and hopes that people will rally behind the Women’s World Cup in the same way.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 promises to be a significant event for Wellington and the wider region. Evans’s passion for football and her dedication to promoting the sport’s growth and inclusivity make her an inspiring figure. Her call for the community to unite and contribute to the legacy of women’s football resonates with the objective of building a thriving football culture in Wellington and New Zealand as a whole.
For more information about the events taking place in Wellington in relation to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, visit the WellingtonNZ website. WellingtonNZ is the region’s Economic Development Agency, working to enhance prosperity, vibrancy, and liveability. Their mission includes promoting Wellington as a region for visitors, residents, students, businesses, and investors, showcasing the city’s unique attributes and fostering collaboration and engagement across the region. Through effective storytelling, WellingtonNZ aims to bring Wellington to the world and vice versa, supporting businesses, hosting events, running civic venues, and managing destination development.
