Local Legends: Driving women’s football success at St Mary’s

Jessie Bickerton is the type of person that makes football clubs thrive and brings communities together. A true local legend!

Jessie is the current Senior Women’s Premiership-winning Team Manager and Women's Football Manager, Committee Member, former player and unofficial photographer for St Mary’s Senior Football and Netball Club in the Northern Football Netball League (NFNL).

Jessie has been instrumental in the growth and development of women’s football at St Mary’s, creating an environment that is more than just a place for women to play footy; it’s a supportive community that welcomes and celebrates everyone. Growing up, Jess was always immersed in the world of sports, so when St Mary’s first floated the idea of a Senior Women’s footy team, she jumped at the chance to play. The women’s team has faced a number of setbacks since its first season, leading to a year-long hiatus where St Mary’s did not field a Senior Women’s side. However, when Jess’ daughter Madi showed an interest in joining the team following her mum’s positive experience at the Club, Jess and her husband Troy went straight to the President to push for a second chance for the women’s program.

Jess’ vision was not merely about football; it was about creating a space where all women could enjoy the benefits of team sport. Through her tireless efforts, Jess has shattered barriers and opened doors for women from all walks of life and the Club as a whole. The impacts of Jess’ contribution to the St Mary’s community are felt both on and off the field. She was instrumental in facilitating the inclusion of St Mary’s first Indigenous player and the first openly LGBTQIA+ player, and on the field, the women’s team that Jess advocated for won the Premiership in 2023, just 2 short years after the team was reinstated.

“The culture shift within the Club has been remarkable; the women’s team has brought a whole different dynamic that everyone, including the men, have benefitted from,” said Micaela Hanlon, a volunteer at St Mary’s who works closely with Jess.

“One of her most remarkable qualities is her commitment to ensuring that no player is ever left behind."

“Whether it's providing personal support or encouraging someone to go for their first goal, Jess has been a source of strength for countless individuals within the club. Her commitment to women’s football is unwavering, and Jess will always continue to advocate for the needs of the women’s program."

This year, Jess remains in her role as Team Manager and will be supporting the team as they are promoted to Division 1.

St Mary’s Club Secretary Lauren Ind believes her club truly wouldn’t have a women’s program without Jess.

"Jessie is the heartbeat of women's footy in our community. Without her we wouldn't have a women's team today. Her passion not just for the for the game but for the players is what keeps driving our success. She's the one who's always has their backs, making sure every player feels like they're part of something special," she said.

While she has already progressed women's participation at St Mary’s, Jess continues to be an advocate for equality and fairness in football for women and girls.

AFL Victoria’s Local Legends initiative aims to recognise the local heroes who are the lifeblood of their local clubs and communities.

Whether it be a coach, player, umpire, local business owner, administrator or volunteer, AFL Victoria wants to celebrate the people who are the backbone of community football clubs. Community football clubs simply could not survive without those who are willing to show up each weekend and make sure that the game goes ahead, crowds are well fed, players are supported and success is enjoyed.

Nominees for the AFL Victoria Local Legends initiative can be anyone who is involved in a community football club in any capacity, whether it be paid or unpaid, directly related to the game or a behind-the-scenes super star, these legends are who make community football what it is.

Do you know someone with a great story like Sam's? Nominate them now.