Football NSW strengthens commitment to Female Para Program

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Image credit: ParaMatildas

Football NSW is proud to reaffirm its ongoing support of the Female Para Football Program, made possible through the NSW Office of Sport’s NSW Football Legacy Program and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care’s Play Our Way initiative.

Launched in 2019, the Football NSW Female Para Program is a vital part of Football Australia’s ParaMatildas pathway, empowering women with disabilities to engage with the sport at all levels. This renewed investment will support a series of monthly training sessions at Valentine Sports Park, building on the momentum of the initial ‘Come and Try’ day.

This groundbreaking player identification and development program is designed to enhance inclusion, talent growth, and pathway opportunities for female athletes with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury (ABI), and stroke-related impairments.

The first ‘Come and Try’ session will take place at Valentine Sports Park on Saturday 14 June, held in conjunction with a ParaMatildas national team camp. Participants will have the unique opportunity to try Para Football and meet members of the CommBank ParaMatildas squad.

Head of Women’s Football, Hayley Todd, welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of inclusion and early talent development.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide more resources and investment in this program, which aligns with our commitment to creating inclusive football environments and providing pathways for women with disabilities,” she said via press release.

“Our goal is to identify talent early, support their development, and inspire more women to experience the joy of football.”

Together with its partners, Football NSW aim to break down barriers and create a more inclusive future for women in football.

Female players of all experience levels are encouraged to register their interest and be part of this exciting new chapter. Whether you’re new to the game or have played before, the Female Para Football Program welcomes everyone into a supportive and inclusive environment.

To secure your spot, register here.

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FV Celebrates Major Facility Upgrades Across Regional Victoria Under RCSIF

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Image Credit: Shutterstock 2472394857

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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