AFC SAFF sign major MoU for Saudi football growth

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The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) to continue to develop and strengthen the football network in the country.

To sign the MoU, AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John and SAFF General Secretary Ibrahim Alkassim marked the deal at the Ritz-Carlton Jeddah Hotel before the AFC Champions League Elite™ Finals Jeddah 2025.

The MoU highlighted several programmes designed to enhance the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s football infrastructure, operational procedure and employees before the nation hosts the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

In particular, the MoU seeks to establish a new framework which focuses on education and research via the AFC Academic Centre of Excellence (ACE) to upskill participants’ ability to manage and operate footballing institutions.

AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John outlined the AFC’s dedication to assisting Member Associations.

“The AFC is committed to uplifting its Member Associations and collaborations like this Memorandum of Understanding are one of the various ways that we can foster development of the game,” he said in a press release.
“We look forward to working closely with our friends at the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to raise the levels of football excellence even higher, through our highly acclaimed ACE programmes that have already benefitted hundreds of graduates.”
SAFF General Secretary Ibrahim Alkassim highlighted the value of signing the MoU with the AFC.
“The Saudi Arabian Football Federation is proud to partner with the AFC in this important initiative to further enhance the capabilities of our football community,” he said via press release.
“Through the ACE programmes and the spirit of collaboration enshrined in this Memorandum of Understanding, we are confident that our staff, stakeholders, and partners will gain valuable knowledge and expertise to drive Saudi football to even greater heights.
“We look forward to a successful journey together as we prepare to host the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ and beyond.”
In addition to the AFC ACE, the AFC will collaborate with the SAFF Institute of Research to investigate football in Asia and undergo a project to digitise relevant Asian national team and club competition materials.
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FV Celebrates Major Facility Upgrades Across Regional Victoria Under RCSIF

Staff Writer
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Football Victoria (FV) is pleased to acknowledge the announcement of four successful projects funded through the Victorian Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund (RCSIF), which will deliver vital upgrades to key football facilities throughout regional Victoria.

The RCSIF is a $60 million initiative from the Allan Labor Government designed to improve community sports infrastructure with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility.

FV is proud to spotlight the following projects that have secured funding:

Thompson Reserve (Inverloch Stars SC)
This upgrade will feature the construction of female-friendly change rooms and enhanced lighting, encouraging greater participation among women and girls.

Dixon Field (Gisborne SC)
Essential lighting improvements will be implemented to expand training and match capacity, supporting the increasing demand for football in the Macedon Ranges.

Victoria Park (Daylesford & Hepburn United SC)
The project will include lighting enhancements to improve venue usability and support broader access for the local football community.

Romsey Recreation Reserve (Macedon Rangers SC)
Funding will go towards planning and design works for new lighting and redevelopment of the main playing surface, laying the groundwork for future infrastructure development.

FV’s Head of Government Relations & Strategy, Lachlan Cole, expressed his excitement about the funding and the positive impact it will bring to regional football communities:

 “These investments are a testament to the importance of football in regional communities.

“Upgraded facilities not only created better playing experiences but also promote social connection in the community and allow for more people to play the game they love.”

Introducing the Nine Ad Manager Association and Community Club of the Year Awards

Staff Writer
Image Credit: Football NSW

Football NSW is proud to introduce the inaugural Football NSW Association of the Year Award, which will be presented at the Football NSW State Dinner on Saturday, October 25th. This prestigious new accolade will be awarded alongside our State Awards, Future Leader Award, Fair Play Award, and the esteemed George Churchward Medal.

Proudly sponsored by Nine Ad Manager, the Association of the Year Award recognises a Football NSW Association that has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to the growth and development of football both within its region and across the state.

The winning Association will be one that actively empowers its clubs to enrich the football experience for players, coaches, referees, and volunteers. It will also be a strong collaborator—working constructively with Football NSW and peer Associations to safeguard and advance the long-term integrity of the game.

The Nine Ad Manager Association of the Year will have shown exceptional achievement or innovation in enhancing football delivery, across areas such as:

  • Innovative approaches to football delivery
  • Club development and support
  • Volunteer recognition and engagement
  • Development pathways for players, coaches, and referees
  • Strong governance practices
  • Creation of a safe, inclusive, and positive environment
  • Long-term strategic planning for growth and sustainability
  • Community outreach and advocacy
  • Promotion of diversity and inclusion (e.g., women and girls, CALD communities)
  • Collaborative partnerships with councils, schools, sponsors, and community groups

Launching in 2025: Nine Ad Manager Community Club of the Year Award

Also debuting in 2025, the Nine Ad Manager Community Club of the Year Award will celebrate a Community Club affiliated with a Football NSW Association that has shown exceptional leadership in raising the profile of grassroots football.

This award will honour a Club that works closely with its Association to foster growth, excellence, and community impact. The winning Club will have demonstrated innovation and excellence in football delivery across areas such as:

  • Recognition as a Club Changer Club
  • A commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment
  • Volunteer support and appreciation
  • Development of players, coaches, and referees—especially through engagement with Association and State pathway programs
  • Strong governance
  • Fostering a positive club culture
  • Outstanding community advocacy and engagement
  • On-field excellence and achievement

Each Association will be invited to nominate one Community Club within its region for consideration. Nomination forms will be distributed in the coming weeks, and Associations are encouraged to begin gathering information in preparation. Community Clubs interested in being nominated should contact their Association directly.

Award Prizes

The winners of both the Nine Ad Manager Association of the Year and Community Club of the Year will receive a complimentary $2,000 AUD campaign via the Nine Ad Manager Platform. Two runners-up in each category will receive a $1,000 AUD campaign.

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