NWS Spirit FC’s $1.9M Grant: Election Pledge for Synthetic Fields

NWS Spirit FC has confirmed a potential $1.9 million grant to assist in funding the construction of five new synthetic fields build at Christie Park.

Member for Bennelong, Jerome Laxale MP, has pledged a re-elected Albanese Government will help fund five new small-sided synthetic fields at Christie Park, building on the work he began as Mayor of Ryde.

The Christie Park Small-Sided Synthetic Fields Project marks the next phase of the Master Plan, expanding on earlier improvements like the addition of a new amenities building and training facilities that was initiated in 2015.

“With the immense growth of women’s football, alongside our growing population, this upgrade will help more locals get on the field, free up space on our natural grass fields, and enable the establishment of a stand alone futsal style comp here in Bennelong,” he said via a post on Facebook.

The club views this as a fantastic win for the players, families, and supporters, providing the facilities they need to train, play, and thrive—no matter the weather.

What this would means for NWS Spirit FC & the local football community:

  • More playing space to support our growing club and grassroots football.
  • Year-round access, eliminating washed-out games and cancelled training sessions.
  • Enhanced facilities for junior development, helping the next generation of footballers succeed.
  • A community-focused investment that makes the most of our sporting infrastructure.

Jerome Laxale MP expresses his long-term commitment to the cause, and his efforts to continue to develop sporting clubs in the future.

“I’ve been working to finish Christie Park since my first days on Ryde Council. Today’s announcement is a huge next step, I’ll always work hard for sporting clubs across Bennelong,” he said via a post on Facebook.

The club states they have worked closely with Jerome Laxale and all levels of government for years to bring this project to life.

“We are proud to support this announcement and look forward to seeing these new facilities become a reality and want to thank Jerome for his continued support of our club and sport,” the club said via press release.

NWS Spirit FC expresses their gratitude towards Jerome for his ongoing support of the club and the sport, with working closely alongside the club and all government levels to bring this project to life.

Calling all their members to spread the word and celebrate the investment in Christie Park’s future, the club insists on sharing this announcement on social media, in hopes of making this dream a reality.

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Shepparton Cup – Victoria’s biggest junior football tournament – set for 2026 edition

Victoria’s largest junior football tournament is set to kick off in style as the Shepparton Cup returns for 2026. With age groups from under-sevens through to under-17s, the Shepparton Cup welcomes players of all genders and abilities as the perfect way to end the 2026 club season.

The tournament kicks off on the 23rd of October with an Olympic-style opening ceremony. The 2025 edition saw 385 teams and 4,600 players take to the pitch across both Liga and Copa Divisions. The Liga Division is for grassroots teams of all abilities who want a fun competitive experience; the Liga Division is for NPL and state league teams who will compete in a competitive carnival.

Rolando Navas, Managing Director of Sports Group Melbourne, says the tournament is not only beneficial for young players but also for the community of Shepparton.

“The Shepparton Cup is a great opportunity for families and the wider Shepparton community to embrace the regional community and provide a platform for young players to participate and experience a competitive and fun three day festival of football.”

The 2026 Shepparton Cup will be held from 23rd to 25th October 2026 at Shepparton Sports City. For more information about the Shepparton Cup, click the link here.

Australian Sports Group reveals ambitious blueprint for Canberra United

New Canberra United owners, Australian Sports Group, have outlined an ambitious investment blueprint for the future of the club.

The plans centre around strengthening the club’s foundations, establishing elite academy pathways, and the introduction of an A-League Men’s team. More broadly, it aims to create a stronger football ecosystem that connects players, clubs and communities across the Australian Capital Territory.

A key pillar of the strategy is the development of an elite academy. The proposed pathways will create opportunities for emerging talent to progress towards professional football, strengthening the connection between grassroots participation and the elite game. The academy would form an important foundation for the proposed A-League Men’s team. ASG are targeting an entry into the Men’s competition from 2028/29, pending required process.

The introduction of a men’s team would expand the club’s professional offering and create additional opportunities for players, coaches and football staff. It would also give local talent a clearer pathway towards senior football without having to leave the region.

Infrastructure investment is another central component of the blueprint. The group plans to improve football facilities and secure a long-term home for the club. These developments would support the women’s program while laying the groundwork for future expansion.

The strategy also prioritises stronger engagement across the ACT football community. The ownership group plans to work with local stakeholders and government to align the club’s growth with broader priorities for sport and community development.

The immediate focus remains on stabilising the women’s program and building the structures needed for long-term success. This approach provides a foundation for the club to expand its operations while maintaining its existing identity and community connections.

The investment blueprint signals a broader ambition for Canberra United. By combining elite player development, improved infrastructure and the potential introduction of a men’s team, the group aims to establish a sustainable professional football model for the capital. The vision positions Canberra United as a platform for growth across the region, with a pathway to connect grassroots participation, academy development and professional competition.

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