MWFA Lead the Way Again with Seven Teams in State Cup Finals Showcase

Manly Warringah Football Association (MWFA) will once again boast the highest representation of any association at this Sunday’s State Cup Finals at Valentine Sports Park, with seven teams qualifying for the prestigious NSW knockout competition, an outstanding achievement for the region and a continuation of their recent dominance.

It marks several consecutive years of strong MWFA presence in the competition, following an even larger contingent in 2025 when the association had 10 teams involved in the State Cup Finals. The 2026 return of seven finalists reinforces the depth, consistency and strength of grassroots football across the northern beaches.

This year’s MWFA representatives come from across a wide spread of clubs, highlighting the competitive balance within the association. Collaroy Cromer Strikers FC lead the way with two teams (13 Boys and 18 Women’s), while Dee Why FC (16 Boys), Harbord FC (15 Girls), Pittwater RSL FC (13 Girls), Seaforth FC (16 Girls), and St Augustine’s FC (18 Men’s) complete the seven-strong group heading into finals day.

MWFA CEO Vicki Halpin said she was exceptionally proud of the clubs, players and volunteers once again delivering on the big stage.

“Exceptionally proud of our clubs and their players. The State Cup fixtures are always an important date on the MWFA calendar, and our clubs always look forward to it each year and they obviously rise to the challenge,” Halpin said.

“Having nearly an equal number of mixed and women’s teams in the finals is also a testament to the strength of both these programs and our strong focus over the past few years on the growth of women’s football.

“The quality of our players, coaches, and club administrators shows that MWFA clubs continue to set a high standard both on and off the field.”

Halpin credited the sustained success to a combination of coaching development and volunteer commitment across the region.

“As an association we have a strong focus on quality coaching and this season alone we have trained an additional 120 coaches. Just as importantly, there is a tremendous commitment from volunteers, committee members and families who dedicate countless hours to supporting their clubs,” she said.

“Having so many teams in the finals again highlights the quality of our players, coaches, and club administrators, and shows that MWFA clubs continue to set a high standard both on and off the field.”

Looking ahead to Sunday’s finals, Halpin offered a message of support and encouragement to all participating clubs.

“Firstly, congratulations to all the teams that have earned their place in the final. Reaching a State Cup Final is a significant accomplishment and a reward for the effort put in throughout the season,” she said.

“On behalf of the MWFA, I wish all competing clubs the very best. Enjoy the occasion, represent your clubs with pride and sportsmanship, and make the most of the opportunity. We are incredibly proud of what you have already achieved and please know that we are all cheering you on next week.”

With seven MWFA teams set to take the field, the association once again stands as one of the major forces in community football across New South Wales, with its clubs ready to showcase their talent on one of the state’s biggest grassroots stages.