Football Queensland begins road trip for Futsal and Walking Football

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Football Queensland (FQ) has announced the launch of a state-wide road trip to promote Walking Football and futsal in their state, with free sessions to be held in a range of locations in Wide Bay and Central Queensland.

The week-long road trip begins today (Monday, May 10) in Bundaberg and will conclude on Monday, May 17 in Gladstone – with various community activations scheduled in Hervey Bay, Emerald and Rockhampton.

“This is another example of FQ’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible participation experiences, regardless of age, gender, location or cultural background,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said.

“We are determined to grow football across the entire state by providing all Queenslanders with the opportunity to try different forms of the game, such as futsal and Walking Football.”

FQ Officer for Walking Football Alan Templeton said that he was eager to promote the modified form of the game in the regions.

“It has been fantastic to see the popularity and growth of Walking Football here in Queensland,” Templeton said.

“Following the success of the recent Walking Football tournament in Brisbane, this trip is all about spreading awareness of this form of football so that Queenslanders of all ages and fitness levels can continue playing the game they love.

“Walking Football is a great way for Queenslanders to stay fit, develop balance and strength, improve reaction times and build self-esteem and social connectedness.”

Accompanying Templeton on the road trip will be FQ Officer for Futsal Trevor Edwards, who will deliver school sessions and conduct community consultation meetings.

“Futsal is fast, fun and exciting and we want to make sure that all Queenslanders have access to the sport,” Edwards said.

“We know that kids who get involved in futsal turbo-charge their skill development and become better footballers as well, so that’s why we will be engaging with schools and clubs throughout Wide Bay and Central Queensland.

“Futsal has historically been focused on metropolitan areas, so this trip is a great opportunity to expand and develop the game in the regions in line with our strategic objective to grow all forms of football throughout Queensland.”

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Bundesliga DNA to the Boardroom: German-born Martin Kugeler Takes the Helm at Football Australia

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Image Credit: Stan

German-born executive, Martin Kugeler, shaped by Europe’s football culture and based in Australia since 2009, will step in as Football Australia CEO in February as the game eyes a defining 2026.

Reaching new heights

During the press conference held earlier this morning, Kugeler displayed both confidence and ambition as he prepares to lead a new era for Football Australia next month.

“Football in Australia has a strong foundation for growth. Our national impact is massive,” he said, highlighting both the immense number of participants and local clubs in Australia. He then continued to underline both the Socceroos and the Matildas as valuable assets in the nation’s football sphere.

“We have exceptional national teams that continually make us proud. They perform at a truly global scale and unite not only the football community, but the entire nation.”

With both the AFC Women’s Asian Cup and the FIFA Men’s World Cup both on the horizon in 2026, the year certainly represents a huge opportunity for both the men’s and women’s game to showcase Australian footballing talent on an international scale. But the focus, as Krugeler underlined, will extend beyond the national team and address all levels of football in Australia to help the game grow.

“Football brings people and communities together. For a healthy lifestyle, for connection, for enjoyment, for belonging, powered by a remarkable, passion [and] dedicated players, referees, coaches, volunteers and fans,” he continued.

An inspiring reminder to all those involved in the game across Australia, and one which will hopefully show participants and stakeholders at all levels that 2026 will begin a new period of stability, growth and innovation.

 

Expertise, passion and ambition

Of course, the dawn of a new era for Football Australia cannot be successfully achieved without addressing the past and current issues, while still keeping an ambitious eye on what football can become at both national and international level for Australia.

Alongside Kugeler in the FA leadership team will be Football Australia Chair, Anter Isaac, as well as former Matilda, and current interim CEO of Football Australia, Heather Garriock. With their combined industry expertise and true passion for the game, all fans, players and stakeholders can be optimistic for the future of football governance in Australia.

But while expertise and passion are undoubtedly valuable assets for the FA, it remains essential that these help to inform the decisions and solutions made with the game’s best interests at heart.

 

 

 

 

Heidelberg United strengthens ties with Melbourne City Toyota

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Heidelberg United FC

It was announced via social media on Tuesday this week that Melbourne City Toyota would be extending their longstanding collaboration with Heidelberg United FC ahead of the 2026 season. 

 

A longstanding connection

The news of a collaboration between Heidelberg United and Melbourne City Toyota will come as no surprise to all those associated with the club. With a connection going all the way back to 2013, their professional relationship is built on solid foundations rooted within the Melbourne community. 

‘Heidelberg United FC is pleased to announce the continued support of our valued partner, Melbourne City Toyota, a proud sponsor since the inception of the NPL,’ the club said via an announcement made on social media. 

With a strong presence across several locations in Melbourne, including Heidelberg itself, Melbourne City Toyota represents an invaluable source of local support for Heidelberg United. 

 

An exciting project 

Since their first collaboration when the NPL first formed in 2013, Melbourne City Toyota have been an ever-present part of Heidelberg United’s journey to becoming one of the most formidable clubs in the NPL. 

In the past three seasons, the club has consistently risen up the NPLM VIC table. A mere two years on from finishing 9th in 2023, the men’s team achieved huge success last season as they became NPLM Victoria champions and reached the final of the Australian Cup. Although the latter ended in defeat, victories against A-League giants like Auckland FC showcased Heidelberg’s quality. 

The women’s team has also enjoyed plenty of success since joining the NPLW in 2016. Most notably, they achieved back-to-back Premiership titles in 2024 and 2025. With such success being showcased in both the NPLM and NPLW, there are certainly no question marks over Heidelberg United’s standing as one of the most exciting footballing projects not only in Victoria, but in all Australia.

 

New chapter, old partners

As clubs continue their preparations for the 2026 season, establishing local support and building community connections will be crucial. ‘The Bergers’ will no doubt be looking to count on the backing of Melbourne City Toyota as both a local and loyal partner in their endeavours on and off the pitch. 

 

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