Honest, constructive, informative conversations echoed around Ikon Park on Thursday morning, as the Blues hosted their first ‘Carlton Listens to Women’ function.
More than 100 female Carlton members attended the event, which was designed and formatted by the Executive Director of the Victorian Women’s Trust, and passionate Carlton member, Mary Crooks, AO.
As the Blues continue to grow in their diversity, the conversations on Thursday strongly reflected around Carlton’s commitment to being an all-inclusive club, and more broadly gender equality.
In talking about the Club’s aspiration and determination to be leaders in gender equality and promoter of equal opportunity, CEO Steven Trigg acknowledged the “demonstrated commitment” from the board right through the organisation to grow and create a sense of belonging for everyone.
“Improvements here are not going to happen if we just produce a membership product for women, or if we just get a Carlton women’s team – it won’t happen this way,” Trigg told the room.
“It has to be a fully integrated approach to meaningful engagement with women and girls, employees, supporters and players.
“Hopefully you can see that we’ve made some ground, but we’ve still got a lot of work to do so today is very important.”
Carlton Board member Kate Jenkins reiterates the importance of this inaugural event. (Photo: Carlton Media)
After addresses from the CEO, club president Mark LoGiudice and Board member Kate Jenkins, it was time for the discussions to get underway.
There were seven questions up for discussion, ranging from how to make football experiences more enjoyable, to what values the Club should display, to the downsides of following football.
As the function drew to a close, Crooks commended the football club for “inviting women to be heard” and to be part of the “building blocks of a contemporary, modern and forward-looking football club.”
The information gathered on Thursday morning will be compiled into a report for the CEO, president and club to digest, reflect and implement.
President Mark LoGiudice made his way around the room, chatting to members during the morning tea break.
(Photo: Carlton Media)
Carlton's marquee player Darcy Vescio (left) and the Blues' Visy Female Football Ambassador
Lauren Arnell (right) were on hand to particpate in the discussion sessions. (Photo: Carlton Media)
