Ex-Chelsea CEO Ron Gourlay takes charge of Valencia CF

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Image Credit: Valencia CF website

Valencia CF has confirmed the appointment of Ron Gourlay as the club’s new CEO of Football, part of a strategic restructure of its leadership team led by president Kiat Lim.

Gourlay, a Scottish football executive with over 25 years’ experience at top clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion, will lead the club’s sporting operations and long-term squad development.

During his time as CEO at Chelsea FC from 2009 to 2014, Gourlay oversaw one of the club’s most successful eras, with Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League titles secured.

Gourlay’s arrival at Valencia reunites him with head coach Carlos Corberán, whom he previously appointed at West Brom. This collaboration is viewed as a key part of Valencia’s plan to return to the elite level of European football. The club says the appointment reflects its commitment to modernising its sporting and management structure.

Valencia CF President Kiat Lim emphasised the club’s focus on building a sustainable and ambitious future.

“We’re building Valencia CF for the future, on a foundation that’s sustainable, ambitious and worthy of our proud history. Ron Gourlay is a senior and highly experienced Sporting CEO who understands the complexities of modern football and the demands of a top-tier club to lead this project,” she said via press release.

Gourlay expressed his excitement about joining the Spanish club and the shared ambition to restore Valencia’s standing at the top level.

“It’s a privilege to join Valencia CF at such a pivotal time. This club has passion, heritage and a global fanbase that deserves success. I’m excited to reunite with Carlos once again,” he said via press release.

“With Kiat’s leadership at the helm, we share a strong ambition to restore Valencia CF to where it belongs — competing for top honours, with a squad that reflects the club’s identity and future.”

Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season, Gourlay and the recruitment team are already assessing squad planning and transfer market opportunities. The club says his leadership will be instrumental in driving a long-term vision for sustainable success both on and off the field.

The road ahead will require bold decisions and a relentless focus on performance. With this leadership team in place, Valencia CF is ready to deliver as a new chapter begins.

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FV Celebrates Major Facility Upgrades Across Regional Victoria Under RCSIF

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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

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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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