Isabelle Dunning is one of 11 members (aged 15-24) of the Central Football Youth Council which was established in late 2024.  The main purpose of the Youth Council is to enable the Federation to respond to the needs of youth by creating a voice that represents that age demographic.

Izzy, a proud resident of Hawke's Bay, was introduced to football by her dad, Jamie, at an early age and has been passionate about the sport ever since.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Izzy to learn more about her deep love for football and the aspirations she holds for her future in football.

Central: What is your background in football?

Izzy: I began playing football at the age of four after moving to New Zealand from England. I played for Marist and absolutely loved it. For the past 13 years, I’ve continued my passion for the sport. My dad is the one who introduced me to football, and I’ve been grateful ever since.

Central: What do you love most about being involved with football?

Izzy: I have always been passionate about the sport; it's my favorite and holds a special place in my heart. I enjoy building friendships with my teammates and creating a positive atmosphere that I love being part of. The thrill of competition and my drive to win will always be what I cherish most about playing.

Central: What was your motivation to become a Youth Council member?

Izzy: I am eager to become more engaged with my community and introduce more people to football, fostering a fun and welcoming environment. I hope my voice can truly make a difference. I have a strong passion for making a difference in women's football, and being part of the CF Youth Council is an important step toward achieving that goal.

Central: What is the pathway for you in football administration in the future?

Izzy: Beyond my involvement with the Youth Council, my primary passion currently lies in playing football. I aspire to compete in the United States at university  and eventually make my way to Europe. Representing New Zealand has been a dream of mine since childhood. Looking ahead, I envision myself contributing to my club’s board and possibly the Central Football Board as well; giving back to the sport I love would be a rewarding experience.

Article added: Tuesday 25 March 2025