
The NSW Government recently announced a $3.1 million investment into more than 100 grassroots football projects and clubs across the state, in order to improve training facilities and bolster player participation through training programs.
In the lead up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup later this year, the investment is seen as an important step in fostering the next generation of footballers, as well as increasing the opportunity for greater female player numbers.
Among the clubs and facilities across NSW receiving this vital funding is South Cardiff Community Football Club. The semi-professional organisation, based in Newcastle, has grown by 59% since 2019, with female participation soaring by 380% during the same period.
South Cardiff Community Football Club President, Lachlan Clarke, commented on the NSW Football Legacy Fund via press release:
“Our club is growing fast, but the club’s equipment is ageing faster. The Legacy Fund grant has allowed us to buy new goals to support the growth of female football and further increase participation of combined male and female team,” he said.
NSW Football’s Community Football Manager, Ross Hicks, further explained the significance of the funding via press release:
“Feedback from our football community shows if people enjoy their time at their club they are more likely to return year after year. This means having a good coach, fit-for-purpose facilities and quality equipment. In South Cardiff’s case having enough goals makes sure their football offering will meet the expectations of new people coming into the club.”
The strategic timing of the NSW Football Legacy Fund sets up the initiative for success. Riding the wave of excitement that the FIFA World Cup brought with it, and the inspiring success of the Socceroos, the anticipation in the lead up to the women’s tournament on Australian soil provides an ideal opportunity to encourage and strengthen football participation, particularly at youth level.
Furthermore, following the catastrophic and violent events of the Melbourne derby pitch invasion, a fund of this scale and significance will likely help to restore football’s name, starting on a local level at least.
Clubs can check whether they are eligible to apply to be sponsored by the NSW Football Legacy Fund, as well as further information about the application process and important dates, here.