Football Victoria’s Community in Business headlined with Graham Arnold

Liam Watson
Football Victoria
Image credit: Football Victoria

Football Victoria’s Community in Business Full-Time Luncheon will take place on Friday October 7 at Hyatt Place Essendon Fields – wrapping up this year’s CIB calendar.

Key stakeholders – including businesses, football clubs, media and government – will be in attendance for the twice-annual get together.

Hosted by Michael Zappone as Master of Ceremonies, special guests include Subway Socceroos head coach Graham Arnold ahead of the 2022 World Cup, Football Australia Head of Women’s Football Sarah Walsh, upcoming young Matilda Naomi Chinnama and Football Australia Legacy Ambassador Azmeena Hussain.

After the unforgettable qualification to the Qatar World Cup, Arnold will be able to reminisce on the entire campaign and what we can expect heading into a fifth straight tournament.

Walsh is a big coup for the luncheon as she’ll discuss what lies ahead for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, while Chinnama is a CommBank Young Matildas defender who will discuss her journey from Point Cook to the Blacktown Spartans and Liberty A-League.

Hussain rounds out the panel as not only an FA Legacy Ambassador but also as a Football Victoria Board member and a Principal Lawyer for Maurice Blackburn Lawyers – listed in the prestigious Doyle’s Guide as a preeminent Australian personal injuries lawyer.

Ahead of the luncheon, Football Victoria Commercial & Sponsorship Coordinator Paul Iliopoulos looks forward to what will be another quality afternoon of insights with a strong line up of guest speakers.

“Our FV Community in Business Luncheon is our last event of the year that will once again offer an exciting business network opportunity for our members and guests,” he told Soccerscene.

“We love bringing together key stakeholders within football in Victoria including businesses, football clubs, media and government.

“Being one of our most popular events, it will provide unparalleled networking opportunities.

“We are going out with a bang as our special guest speakers include Sarah Walsh, Naomi Chinnama and Azmeena Hussain.

“With six weeks to go till the men’s World Cup, we are excited to also speak to Socceroos Head Coach Graham Arnold!”

Following on from the Half-Time Luncheon back in June at Leonda By The Yarra, this upcoming event is another great opportunity for the football community to connect, network and celebrate together.

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Caroline Springs George Cross FC Welcomes Continued Support from Hallmarc Group

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Image Credit: Masall

Caroline Springs George Cross FC is proud to confirm that Hallmarc Group has recommitted as a major sponsor for the upcoming season. This continued support reinforces Hallmarc Group’s strong connection to one of Victoria’s most historic football clubs.

Importantly, the renewed partnership comes at a pivotal time. In 2026, George Cross FC will compete in the National Premier Leagues Victoria. This return to the state’s top tier follows consecutive promotions and reflects the club’s clear upward trajectory.

As a result, Hallmarc Group’s backing will play a vital role across the club. The partnership will strengthen development programs and enhance elite pathways. It will also support the broader football community in Melbourne’s north-west. In addition, the sponsorship will contribute to youth development initiatives, community engagement and improved match-day experiences.

Supporting history and community

Founded in 1947 by Maltese immigrants, Caroline Springs George Cross FC carries a proud cultural legacy. The club wears the George Cross medal on its jersey to honour Maltese heritage. This symbol continues to unite players, officials and supporters across generations.

Furthermore, the club supports around 700 junior and youth players across boys and girls programs. As a result, it plays a central role in local participation and development. Hallmarc Group’s recommitment ensures these opportunities can continue to expand and improve.

Caroline Springs George Cross FC sincerely thanks Hallmarc Group for its continued belief in the club’s vision and long-term success. Their support strengthens elite performance while also reinforcing community spirit and grassroots growth.

Together, Caroline Springs George Cross FC and Hallmarc Group now look ahead to a successful season, both on the field and within the community.

Mitre Appointed FV’s Sole Ball Supplier Across All Competitions

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Image credit: Football Victoria

Football Victoria has unveiled Mitre as its exclusive official ball partner in a significant new three-year deal.

As part of the agreement, Mitre will also serve as a Bronze Partner of the FV Business League, an exclusive networking community created to support members in expanding their connections, elevating their brand, and engaging with like-minded professionals who share a passion for both football and business.

From the 2026 NPL Victoria season, clubs will play with the Mitre Ultimax Pro 26, the latest iteration of Mitre’s iconic match ball. The new Ultimax Pro features cutting-edge technology, enhanced performance, and a contemporary design inspired by the original 1995 model.

The ball incorporates a completely redesigned panel layout, engineered to deliver greater control, more accurate flight, and increased power with every strike.

The new exclusive deal reinforces the eight-year relationship between Mitre and Football Victoria, marking one of the most enduring partnerships in the industry.

FV Commercial Executive Manager, Chris Speldewinde described the agreement as a “major milestone” ahead of the 2026 season.

“Mitre has been a trusted partner of Football Victoria for many years, and this new agreement reinforces our shared commitment to elevating the game at every level,” he said via FV Official media release.

“As we move into the 2026 season, having a world-class ball partner ensures our clubs and players are equipped with the highest standards in performance.”

Director of Sportsmart Group, Gerrard Woods said Mitre was pleased to build on its long-running collaboration with FV.

“Our goal has always been to support the growth of football across the state by delivering products that players and coaches can trust at every level,” he said via press release.

In addition to Mitre’s established reseller network, clubs will be able to order match balls through a dedicated online platform designed for simple, streamlined purchasing.

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