Datacord secures agreement with Football South Australia

Football South Australia has secured Datacord, South Australia’s leading provider of photocopiers, printers, and document solutions, as the new naming rights sponsor of the Collegiate Soccer League (CSL) Division 1.

Initially an inter-college league, the CSL has expanded to include a diverse range of clubs, alongside its established universities, colleges, and schools. The agreement with Datacord highlights a significant business milestone and strengthens community engagement in South Australian football, bolstering the sport’s foundation from the grassroots level.

Datacord’s involvement represents more than a commercial alignment, it’s a shared commitment to supporting grassroots football and strengthening local communities. By aligning with the CSL, Datacord reinforces its reputation not only as a trusted technology provider but also as an engaged local business invested in South Australia’s sporting and social fabric.

Football South Australia believes this collaboration marks a significant step forward in its mission to develop sustainable football pathways and deliver value-driven opportunities for players, clubs, and partners alike.

Datacord Managing Director George Koutsoubis shared his pride in supporting and connecting with a thriving football community.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Football South Australia and support the growth of the game — especially at the grassroots level. Football brings people together, and Datacord is proud to stand alongside Football SA as a true community partner,” he said via press release.

Football South Australia CEO Michael Carter expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Datacord.

“We are pleased to welcome Datacord into the Football South Australia family. Their values and commitment to community align perfectly with our mission to grow and support the game across all levels,” he echoed similar sentiments via press release.

CSL Executive Board Member Kenny Osborne also expressed his excitement about the positive impact this collaboration will have on the league.

“This partnership with Datacord is a fantastic step forward for the CSL. It represents the recognition of the important role community football plays in the sporting landscape of South Australia. We look forward to a vibrant future together, underpinned by shared values and mutual support,” aligning with the views of Carter and Koutsoubis, Osborne highlighted via press release.

This collaboration showcases Datacord’s strong presence and leadership in South Australia, while also underscoring a mutual commitment to fostering the future of football through shared values of teamwork, passion, and purpose.

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Optus joins Football Queensland as Telco Partner in the North

Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed its collaboration with Optus, naming the leading telecommunication provider as its Official Telecommunications Partner across the Northern, Far North and Gulf regions.

The collaboration will see Optus play an active role in supporting grassroots football throughout the year-long partnership, with a visible presence at FQ precincts in both Cairns and Townsville. This will include branded signage and community-focused activations at key events, further enhancing the matchday experience for players, families, and fans.

FQ General Manager – Northern Conference, Craig Ramage, said the partnership will be a valuable boost for local communities and reflects FQ’s commitment to growing the game in regional areas.

“Football Queensland is excited to expand its long-standing relationship with Optus as we enter into a thriving partnership in the Northern and Far North & Gulf regions,” he said via press release.

“It is excellent to have a brand as prominent as Optus recognise the importance of grassroots football in regional areas.

“Optus’ year-long support will provide a crucial boost that directly benefits clubs and participants across the region, strengthening communities and actively contributing to FQ’s vision for the future of football.”

Optus General Manager North Queensland, Dave Morrissey, emphasised the importance of the North Queensland football community and Optus’ commitment to supporting the next generation as they develop into future stars of the game.

“It is our absolute pleasure to partner with Football Queensland’s Northern and Far North regions. It is great to get to watch the next generation of young players grow their skills and love for the game, and we appreciate all the support we get in return from the local community,” he said via press release.

Football communities attending events and matches at Paradise Park and Macca’s Park can expect to see Optus actively involved throughout the season, with a strong presence around the grounds that reflects the brand’s commitment to regional engagement and sporting development.

Football Australia CEO James Johnson to step down

Chief Executive Officer of Football Australia, James Johnson has advised the Board of his decision to resign.

Mr Johnson’s decision marks the end of his 5½-year term as CEO of the sport’s governing body, during which he, together with the Board, the Football Australia team, and the wider football community, led one of the most successful eras in Australian football history.

During his tenure, Mr Johnson steered Australian football through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the sport reach record participation levels. Under his leadership, Football Australia launched a 15-year strategic vision, achieved unprecedented revenue growth, implemented significant reforms such as Club Licensing Regulations and updates to the Player Transfer System, and revitalised the Australia Cup by linking it to Asia via the AFC Club Competitions.

Mr Johnson oversaw Football Australia’s successful bid for and hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, a globally acclaimed event that marked a cultural turning point for sport in Australia. During his time as CEO, Football Australia also secured hosting rights for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and elevated both the men’s and women’s national teams into prominent global sporting brands, each achieving their best-ever results at the FIFA World Cup 2022™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

In a reflection on his time at the helm, James Johnson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Football Australia over the past 5½ years, highlighting the dedication and talent of the colleagues he worked with throughout his tenure.

“It has been a privilege to lead Football Australia for the past 5½ years, having had the pleasure to work alongside the most talented, committed and dedicated staff, executives and board members,” he said via press release.

“As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

“I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football.”

The Football Australia Board has appointed current director and former Matilda, Heather Garriock, as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

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