The Wilhelmina Fund, established by Ringwood City Soccer Club in 2019, is a standout example of how a proud Dutch-Australian football club continues to honour its heritage while supporting its local community.
Ringwood City SC was founded by Dutch migrants in the post-World War II period—a time when many Dutch community organisations across Australia paid tribute to Queen Wilhelmina, who had become a powerful symbol of resilience during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. From Wilhelmina Halls to Dutch social clubs and sporting teams, her name was commonly used to evoke the enduring spirit of the homeland and the values Dutch migrants carried with them: solidarity, fairness, and mutual support.
By naming its social outreach initiative after Queen Wilhelmina, Ringwood City is not only reaffirming this heritage, but also breathing new life into it by helping remove financial barriers for players in its diverse community. The Wilhelmina Fund provides essential football equipment and covers part—or all—of the registration costs for those who may otherwise be unable to participate in community football.
This initiative reflects a long-standing ethos among Dutch clubs in Australia: football is more than a sport; it’s a way to connect people, strengthen community ties, and offer opportunity, especially for newcomers and those doing it tough.
In partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation, all donations to the Wilhelmina Fund are tax deductible. The initiative also received a boost with Atlas Broker Finance coming on board as a major partner, showing how community and business can work together to foster inclusivity through sport.
The Wilhelmina Fund continues to ensure that Ringwood City lives up to its mission: to be welcoming, inclusive, and supportive—for everyone.
