“Female Commentators Make History in Liberty A-League: Breaking Barriers and Leading the Way”

This weekend, history will be made in the Liberty A-League as an all-female team of commentators and co-commentators will call an entire round for the first time ever. This milestone moment has been in the works for almost two years, starting with the Australian Professional Leagues and production partner Global Advance taking charge of the commentary roster after the 2021-22 A-Leagues season. The goal was to identify and nurture the best up-and-coming female commentators in the country.

Following a six-month search led by GA supervising producer Dan Hemingway, broadcast talents Pokuah Frimpong, Taryn Heddo, and Georgia Rajic underwent training to become the next generation of Liberty A-League commentators. They received weekly sessions with veteran Network 10 commentator Robbie Thomson, including one-on-one masterclasses, to prepare them for on-air roles. All three have since become established Liberty A-League commentators.

Meanwhile, former Matilda and Liberty A-League great Grace Gill has successfully transitioned from co-commentator to play-by-play commentator, showcasing her talents in lead commentary. Gill expressed the challenges and opportunities for women in sports broadcasting, emphasizing the importance of female voices in the industry.

As the female commentator lineup continues to strengthen, with the addition of experienced Australian hockey caller Kate Allman, the Liberty A-League now boasts a formidable group of women making their mark in sports commentary. Legends like Teresa Polias, Catherine Cannuli, Alicia Ferguson, and Rhali Dobson, along with Young Matildas head coach Leah Blayney, have joined the broadcast ranks.

Viewers tuning in to 10Play and Paramount+ this weekend will witness a historic moment in Liberty A-League broadcasting, as every match will be called and co-called by female commentators for the first time. The APL, alongside the 10 Network and Global Advance, aims to celebrate the growing influence of females in football with this groundbreaking initiative.

In addition, don’t miss Dubzone on Sunday night on A-Leagues YouTube and 10Play, where Niav Owens, Grace Gill, Teo Pellizzeri, and special guest Wanderers star and Matildas squad member Sophie Harding will review the weekend’s matches. This weekend marks a significant step forward for gender diversity and representation in sports commentary, showcasing the talent and passion of female voices in the Liberty A-League.