We are delighted to announce that Alida Shanks has joined the WaiBOP Football team as Legacy Manager heading into the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Alida joins us with plenty of football experience. Having volunteered with football clubs for many years, she also worked for Capital Football, Northern Football, and NZ Football in communication roles, as well as a season with the Wellington Phoenix in a community development role. She has recently completed her PhD on gender equity and belonging in community football organisations, so is well placed to lead our world cup legacy plan.

Alida said she’s really excited to be back working in football at such a momentous time with the FIFA Women’s World Cup about to take place right here in New Zealand.

“I feel like I’m coming home – as a kid I first kicked a football at Neil Hunt Park in Rotorua, then went on to play football in Hamilton while I was at university and joined my first club committee. It’s really exciting to now be back where my football journey began at such an important time for football.

“I’m looking forward to getting out and working with clubs and schools in the WaiBOP region to ensure there is a legacy that lives on right here in our community beyond the tournament.”