Australia Championship. Western Australia Premier League. Night Series. Women
The Night Series of the Western Australia Premier League for women is a thrilling pre-season tournament kicking off the female football calendar in the state. Run by Football West, it features top clubs from the National Premier Leagues WA Women (NPL WA Women), delivering high-energy evening clashes under the lights. This competition highlights the booming popularity of women's soccer in Australia, with Western Australia boasting strong infrastructure and a pipeline of local talent.
History and foundation
Launched in the late 1990s to build hype before the main season, the inaugural 1998 edition was claimed by Perth SC. It evolved through the 2010s NPL reforms, elevating standards. Iconic moments include the 2019 grand final where Balcatta FC edged Bayswater City on penalties after a 2:2 draw, and Allison Evans' hat-trick record in 2022. Amid the Matildas' rise, the series has launched careers into the A-League Women.
Tournament format
The format is straightforward: 10-12 NPL WA Women teams play a double round-robin (home and away), totaling 20-30 matches. Top 4 advance to semis, culminating in a grand final at a prime venue like Members Equity Stadium. Evening fixtures maximize crowds, with standard 2x45-minute games. Winners earn trophies and prep perks for the NPL proper.
Interesting facts
Scoring is lively, averaging 3.2 goals per game, spiking over 5 in playoffs. All-time top scorers: Samantha Gerrard (85 goals), Allison Evans (22 in 2023), Kate Dunbar (Balcatta record). Standouts include Evans (now A-League), Gerrard (state legend), and prospects like Mia Wallace from Perth Glory Youth. It has nurtured 15 Matildas players.