The Dock in Kingston is screening all FIFA Women’s World Cup matches, and rallying support with Matildas merchandise up for grabs. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
Is women’s sport starting to get the global recognition it deserves? The Dock co-owner Glen Collins thinks it is, and he reckons it’s about time too.
The popular waterside pub in Kingston is contributing to the local commotion around the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and Glen couldn’t be more pleased.
“It’s no secret men’s sport gets a lot more attention than women’s, so it’s terrific to see the Matildas taking the spotlight,” he says.
“We believe Australian women in sport should get the recognition and publicity they deserve, and this year’s World Cup is the perfect platform for that.”
The Dock is not only screening all games live but is drumming up buzz with giveaways. Anyone who books a table on a match day goes into the draw to win Matildas merchandise including a team jersey and scarf.
Glen says there has been a noticeable shift in enthusiasm for women’s sports for the first year, but the World Cup seems to be setting a new apex for excitement.
“I think the majority of Canberrans, even if they’re not soccer fans, at least know it’s happening. And there seems to be a lot of support for the Matildas this time around,” he says.
“Hosting it in Australia and New Zealand rather than Europe or the Americas helps. It’s such a treat to have the games at such convenient times.
“Women’s sport is getting more and more accessible, and the quality of the games – they’re a lot more entertaining. In the case of the Matildas, they’re really ahead of their male counterparts, the Socceroos, in that they’re genuine contenders for the World Cup.
“We should absolutely rally behind them.”
Glen says regardless of who you’re rooting for though, the World Cup screenings are well worth a watch.
That’s why Canberra’s soccer lovers and diehard fans of all backgrounds have been coming out in numbers to support their beloved teams.
“Dutch supporter groups come to The Dock for all the Netherlands games. At one point we had about 50 Dutch fans in here,” Glen says.
“Canberra’s Columbian population are always enthusiastic supporters. And of course, quite a few of the embassies come out with supporters for their nations’ games, so there has been a mix, which is great.”
The first Matildas match, which filled the pub with 200 Aussie fans, has so far been the most popular. But their spectacular match on Monday (31 August) against Canada guarantees plenty of big nights ahead.
“The Matildas convincingly bested Canada four to nil in a packed-out pub of green and gold supporters at The Dock on Monday night,” Glen says.
“Stoked to see them score four goals in what was an extremely exciting game for all of the fans, with tournament hopes on the line.
“We’re really cheering and rallying for them, and we want to put the call out to all Canberrans to do the same. Come out and support the Matildas in their World Cup glory at The Dock.”
View the entire FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 schedule here and don’t miss the next Matildas match at The Dock on Monday 7 August at 8:30 pm. A full house is expected so book now to secure your spot and for your chance to win a jersey and other Matildas merchandise.
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