Female Football Week Spotlight: Izzy Ottavi

For our final 2026 Female Football Week Spotlight, we are proud to recognise Izzy Ottavi — a valued member of the Taroona Football Club community whose contribution to football extends far beyond the pitch.

A respected Women’s Super League player, Izzy (they/them) has dedicated countless hours to supporting the game through coaching, volunteering in media and communications, and stepping up to help the club whenever needed. Alongside their involvement in football, Izzy also balances work commitments, studies, and life as a parent of two — a testament to their dedication, resilience, and passion for community sport.

Over the years, Izzy has played an important role in fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment at Taroona FC. Through their leadership and advocacy, they have helped strengthen a club culture where respectful language and behaviour matter, and where the club strives for everyone to feel accepted, supported, and valued for who they are.

Their impact has encouraged players, coaches, and members to continue reflecting, learning, and growing together — helping ensure the club consistently upholds its values and maintains a positive culture for all.

For Izzy, creating spaces where young people feel safe to participate in football is incredibly important.

When asked what advice they would give young girls and non-binary kids who feel nervous or discouraged about starting football, Izzy’s message was simple but powerful:

“Be courageous! Have confidence in yourself to go after something that you would like to achieve, and set yourself up with some good supports — whether it be friends, family, or teammates — who can be a positive and encouraging influence along the way.”

Izzy also spoke openly about the challenges many non-binary athletes can experience in sport and why Taroona FC feels different to other sporting environments they have experienced.

“I think for many non-binary or gender-queer athletes, the binary structure of sport can foster a real sense of uncertainty,” Izzy explained.

“In the past, I’ve definitely felt an awkwardness and wondered whether I could feel like I could be myself in a context that forces you to pick one of two boxes, when you don’t really feel like either of them represents you fully.”

“Playing football at Taroona FC has been completely different to any other sporting clubs I’ve played for. There is something unique about the community here which strengthens the feeling of truly ‘belonging’.”

“Whether it’s the players, supporters, coaches, or the volunteers running the club — they all seem to be genuinely open-minded, incredible people who understand diversity, and have all been accepting, friendly, and welcoming from the get-go.”

“There’s an authentic and inherent value of respect at Taroona FC — something I’ve never experienced anywhere else. I think it goes without saying that I’d highly recommend this club and football community to anyone who is keen to have a kick.”

Izzy’s contribution to football highlights the importance of visibility, inclusion, and community in shaping the future of the game. Through their leadership, advocacy, and willingness to support others, they continue to help create an environment where all players can feel safe, respected, and empowered to participate.

We are incredibly grateful for everything Izzy brings to our football community and proud to celebrate their contribution during Female Football Week.