Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the 2026 SOAR Academy Cup brought together 100 female students from Baler Primary School, Cassia Primary School, South Hedland Primary School, Port Hedland Primary School and St Cecilia's Catholic Primary School for a day of football, leadership and connection.
The all-girls carnival continued to strengthen female participation in football while providing young people with opportunities to build confidence, teamwork and leadership skills in a safe and inclusive environment.
A highlight of this year's event was the involvement of Shooting Stars at Hedland Senior High School, with six Indigenous female students from Years 7 to 9 taking on official umpiring duties throughout the day.
The partnership created a valuable leadership pathway for the young women, who confidently officiated every match while serving as positive role models for the primary school participants.
The continued support of Youth Engagement Partner BHP once again played a significant role in the success of the carnival, with Manager of Rail Network Maintenance Luke Bolzen officially opening the event.
The Eagles were also proud to welcome Eastern Guruma as a partner of the 2026 SOAR Academy Cup, with representatives providing snacks and water for all participants before presenting individual and team awards during the closing ceremony.
West Coast Eagles Youth Engagement Coordinator Hayley Thompson said the carnival continued to provide meaningful opportunities for young people in the Pilbara.
"I remain committed to working alongside schools, community organisations and industry partners to strengthen opportunities for young people across Port Hedland,” Thompson said.
“The SOAR Academy Cup continues to play an important role in developing future leaders both on and off the field."
Eastern Guruma Indigenous Business Development Manager Chris Cowan said the organisation was proud to support an initiative that delivers positive outcomes for young people and the wider community.
"Partnerships like this reflect Eastern Guruma's commitment to creating genuine opportunities for young people and supporting the community," Cowan said.
"The business has never just been about contracts or growth, it's about creating real opportunities for Aboriginal people, families and community."
Despite challenging conditions, Cowan said the enthusiasm of participants showcased the power of sport to bring communities together.
"What stood out most was the energy and enthusiasm of the students; despite the windy conditions everyone seemed to be having a blast on the day," Cowan said.
"These types of events are great examples of the power of sport in our regional communities to bring young people together and encourage teamwork, leadership and healthy competition."
While Baler Primary School claimed the 2026 SOAR Academy Cup title, the success of the carnival extended far beyond the final siren.
Throughout the day, students displayed outstanding sportsmanship, resilience and encouragement, highlighting the positive culture continuing to grow around girls' football in Port Hedland.
This year's carnival also featured 10 individual awards recognising participants who embodied the values of the SOAR Academy Cup.
Alongside the Carnival MVP and each school's Best and Fairest award, the newly introduced Leadership Award and Sportsmanship Award celebrated students who led by example, demonstrated exceptional character and consistently encouraged those around them.
To ensure every participating school was recognised, schools that did not receive the Carnival MVP were invited to nominate a student who best demonstrated leadership or sportsmanship throughout the carnival, reinforcing that success is measured not only by football ability but also by the values participants display both on and off the field.
Cowan said the day highlighted the impact strong community partnerships can have on young people.
"It was a fantastic day and a great example of what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared purpose," Cowan said.
"Eastern Guruma is proud to support an initiative that celebrates young people and community, and we look forward to continuing to build on the partnership."
For more information on how to get involved with our SOAR program contact Hayley Thompson – hayleyt@wce.com.au
