Tasmania Women's Northern Premier League
The Tasmania Women's Northern Premier League is a premier regional competition featuring top women's football clubs from Tasmania's north, centered around Launceston. It highlights the surge in women's soccer in Australia, fostering talent that often progresses to national levels or the A-League Women.
History and foundation
The league's roots trace back to the late 1990s, with the inaugural season in 1998 featuring four teams. By the 2010s, it expanded to eight clubs. A standout moment was 2017 when Riverside Olympic Women went unbeaten, clinching 18 wins and draws. The 2022 season navigated COVID disruptions with enhanced protocols, solidifying its resilience. Notably, a 2019 clash between Launceston United and Devonport Strikers drew a record 1,200 fans, a milestone for regional women's football.
Tournament format
The format includes a double round-robin regular season of 14 matches per team. Top teams advance to playoffs: semi-finals and a grand final. The champion earns the northern Tasmania title and a spot in the state-wide playoff. The season runs from March to September, aligning with Australia's football calendar.
Interesting facts
Matches average 3.2 goals, peaking at 5 in derbies. All-time top scorer Sarah Milligan (Riverside Olympic) netted 47 goals over 2018–2020. Standouts include Emma Claire (Launceston City, 25 assists in 2023) and goalkeeper Taylor Harris (Devonport, 92% save rate last season). Graduates like Jade Rose now shine in A-League Women for Perth Glory.