Spikey Dykes: Melbourne's Free Social Soccer Group for Sapphics

Key facts

• Spikey Dykes is a free social soccer group for sapphics, founded in October 2024 by Maïa Mattisse.
• The group meets every Wednesday evening in inner north Melbourne/Naarm, with up to 100 members.
• Club president Jaiya Aryal says the group welcomes 'dykes and sapphics of all expressions, with all skill levels.'
• The group does not play typical soccer: team sizes adjust, no offside rule, no red cards, but a referee is present.
• Spikey Dykes is free to join with minimal barriers; rules are explained at the start of each match.
• The group is run by a core committee of 10: Jaiya, Fel, Tate, Lucinda, Izzy, Piper, Alice, Ella, Beth, and Saph.
• They are not part of an official league, a conscious choice to avoid financial inaccessibility.
• Equipment is funded by donations from players and supporters.
• They play in an overflow area of Princes Park, with no guaranteed weekly space.
• Jaiya dreams of the group meeting the Matildas.
• One player travels over an hour from a regional area to play.
• After matches, many go to a nearby pub, forming friendships and community.
• New members join via Instagram DM or email, joining a 500-plus WhatsApp group.
• No required time commitment; members can come and go.
• The story is featured in issue 133 of frankie magazine.