GSFLW 2026: Denmark-Walpole women’s team open the season with new talent and eyes on the premiership cup

Denmark-Walpole will hit the new Great Southern Football League Women’s competition with an influx of new talent and strong numbers. The Magpies enjoyed a terrific 2025 season, finishing second on the ladder but going down to a red-hot Mt Barker side in the grand final in April. The new GSFLW season starts on Saturday and the Magpies are geared up for another big campaign as they look to play finals again. Coach Glen Burton said pre-season sessions had been well attended, setting a positive tone ahead of round one. “We’ve had good numbers to trainings . . . everybody’s keen and ready to go,” he said. The Magpies are excited to see several new faces, many of whom are locals that are keen to get involved in the sport. “We have got quite a few new players joining,” Burton said. “Most are girls that have moved down and live in the area and want to try their hand at football.” Burton said there are members of the team who could make an immediate impact, adding excitement for the team. “I think there could be a few eye openers there,” he said. “We’ve got a few good ones coming through.” While the ultimate goal remains to win the flag, Burton said competitiveness and consistency were the key focus. “Like all coaches we all want to win the big one at the end of the year, but as long as we can be competitive and make it to the last round that’s what we’re looking at,” he said. “We’ve been there a couple of times, so it’d be nice to finish off the season with the big one.” The Magpies start their season with a clash against North Albany at Collingwood Park before facing Royals in round two. Their first home game at McLean Park will be on February 27 in round four, which is a grand final replay against the Bulls.