Football Queensland delivers football programs to over 8,000 students in Term 3

Football Queensland have delivered multiple football programs in recent months which has seen just under 9,000 students become active through the ‘Sporting Schools’ initiative.

89 schools across the sunshine state were engaged in Term 3 programs, with applications for Term 4 open until the end of this week.

“We made it clear in FQ’s Strategic Plan that we would prioritise opportunities to engage with schools throughout Queensland and Sporting Schools has been an excellent program for us to get kids active across the state and drive ongoing participation and a love of the game,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said.

“Uniting football in Queensland means bringing all facets of the game together and pointed in the same direction to deliver high-quality experiences for everyone involved, even with the challenges presented to us this year with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Over the past six months, our participation team has worked closely with Football Federation Australia to create a sustainable teacher-delivered Sporting Schools option.

“The response was strong with 17 schools electing to run a teacher-delivered program during Term 3, extending our state-wide reach to 89 schools in total and 8,877 participants ranging from Far North Queensland to the Gold Coast.

“I encourage all Queensland schools to take up the funding opportunities on offer before the Term 4 application window closes on Friday.”

Laura Bryant, FQ Participation Officer – Schools, stated: “Each Sporting Schools program is tailored to the individual school’s request.

“The Queensland teachers we have engaged with have done amazingly well with all the hurdles they have faced in what has been a challenging 2020.

“The majority of Sporting Schools football programs this term have still been delivered by our endorsed coaching team during school PE lessons, as well as before and after school.

“Our coaches have done a wonderful job ensuring all children who participate in a Sporting Schools program have a smile on their face in a fun and inclusive environment.”

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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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