Rotorua United are aiming to take the next step up after being crowned the 2016 WaiBOP Premier League Division 1 champions.
United won the inaugural Bay of Plenty and Waikato title at Neil Hunt Park on Sunday after opponents Otumoetai Bay defaulted.
The result left them seven points clear of second placed Northern United - who lost 4-1 against third placed Melville United on the weekend.
United captain Kim Emmanuelle-Maguire was "delighted" for her team and said the key to success was a "never give up" attitude from both players and coaches.
"It feels really good, it's brilliant to be crowned champions," she said.
Coach Ron Cane admitted he was "surprised" to win the title in his first year in charge of the team.
"In many respects this achievement was unexpected. We were up against difficult teams," he said.
"But that's what makes this so great. I'm absolutely chuffed at what they have done and it's very special.
"There is tremendous unity here and our motto all season has been 'unity is our strength' and they have shown this.
"I couldn't ask for more as a coach. They gave it everything and now they have their just reward."
WINNING DUO: United manager Denise Smith (left) and coach Ron Cane celebrate the team's success. PHOTO/ STEPHEN PARKER.
On the way to clinching the title United won 14 of their 17 games and scored 72 goals whilst conceding just 15 - the best attacking and defensive records in the league.
"We are strong in every area," said Cane.
"It is crucial to have a solid defence, and our back line has been outstanding. That needs to be recognised because without that you don't have a strong base to work from.
"And then with the excellent creativity in midfield and lethal strikers we looked dangerous everywhere."
The champions will now contest two matches in the Lotto NRFL playoff series against Northland Football Club to qualify for the Northern League premier women's competition, based out of Auckland.
