James Sangma Appointed FQ Ambassador for Far North & Gulf

Football Queensland has announced the appointment of James Sangma as the Club Development Ambassador for Far North and the Gulf, where he’ll be working with local clubs to enhance technical standards, support game growth, and promote long-term sustainability.

He takes on the position after serving as the interim ambassador for the region and brings a wealth of experience from his previous role within FQ’s Game Development team, where he worked hands-on with clubs and participants across coaching, participation programs, and community engagement.

Sangma expressed his focus on strengthening connections and being a dependable presence for local clubs as he steps into his new role as Club Development Ambassador for Far North and the Gulf.

“My main goal is to continue building strong relationships with our clubs and community, ensuring they feel genuinely supported and empowered by having a reliable and visible presence in the region, someone they can turn to for guidance, support and collaboration,” he said via press release.  

“My time in the Game Development team has been invaluable. It allowed me to build strong connections with the dedicated local volunteers, coaches, parents, and players who are the heart of football in this region. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the unique geographical challenges we face, but also the incredible community spirit that truly sets this region apart.”  

In his new position, Sangma will focus on building club capability and advancing coaching development throughout the region. His priorities include improving access to education and strengthening alignment with the FQ Academy pathway with the goal of delivering more consistent and sustainable outcomes for players, coaches, and clubs.

“My vision is to see clubs across the Far North thrive. I want to see strong, confident coaches developing quality players, and clubs embracing the FQ Academy development pathway to build long-term sustainability from grassroots through to senior football,” he said via press release. 

“Cairns and the surrounding areas of the region are filled with genuine, community-minded people doing incredible things. That spirit is what excites me most. There is so much potential here, and I feel privileged to play a role in unlocking it, helping clubs grow, coaches feel supported, and players reach their goals.”

FQ General Manager – Northern Region, Craige Ramage, welcomed the appointment, highlighting James’ strong ties to the region and his proven ability to deliver meaningful results for local clubs.

“We’re excited for James as he steps into this key role, and we’re confident his deep understanding of the Far North and Gulf football landscape, along with his hands-on experience working directly with clubs and participants, will be invaluable in helping us continue to strengthen clubs and grow the game across the region,” he said via press release.

Sangma’s appointment marks a significant step forward in Football Queensland’s commitment to empowering regional communities and ensuring the continued growth and success of the game throughout Far North and the Gulf.

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FV Celebrates Major Facility Upgrades Across Regional Victoria Under RCSIF

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

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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