Football NSW (FNSW) is recording an unprecedented number of player registrations in 2024, the member federation revealed on Friday.
A staggering 25,000 more people have registered to play football in the state compared to last year, with still another month before most community competitions begin.
Female registrations are reporting a year-on-year increase of 23%, including a 27% increase amongst women over 18 years old.
Meanwhile, Miniroos (aged 5-12) registrations have risen 27% compared to last year.
A 34% increase in registrations for FNSW Summer Football competitions was an early indication that player participation in 2024 would soar.
Whilst the 2023 Women’s World Cup is a much publicised factor, the success of the NSW Football Legacy Fund has also contributed to the increase in demand.
Led by FNSW and the NSW Government to improve facilities and increase participation, the fund delivers $6.21 million to football clubs and associations under the FNSW and Football Northern NSW banner.
This helps football clubs – who may be lacking in quality infrastructure – improve their football operations, and the health of the communities they represent.
Speaking to FNSW, South Coast Football CEO Ann-Marie Balliana says the funds clubs receive is helping to grow registration numbers.
“It’s great to see the continued growth of football in our region,” Balliana said.
“Our local clubs were very successful with Legacy Fund grants for much needed upgrades to facilities, however, with continued growth in numbers comes additional infrastructure needs, and we certainly hope that the increased participation in football is reflected in further funding and grant opportunities.”
FNSW CEO John Tsatsimas agrees with Balliana, advising there is no plan to stop its campaign for more funding.
“With such significant demand to play football, the practical implication is that we are now exceeding facility supply in many areas across NSW,” he told the FNSW website.
“It is vitally important that funding at all levels of government is directed towards improving existing venues and developing new fields so that everyone has the opportunity to play our game.”
Overall, though, Tsatsimas is delighted by the statistics and excited for the future of football in New South Wales.
“We’re on track to break records across the board this season and are thrilled to see female participants at the forefront of this growth,” he enthused.
“Our Club volunteers and local Associations do an incredible job within their respective communities to deliver a positive football experience and welcome new members to the football family.”
Football West revealed last month that its registration figures were on a similar trajectory to that of New South Wales, suggesting a nationwide increase in demand to play football.
Australian football collectively knows it has a responsibility to deliver the highest-quality playing experience so that current participation rates are guaranteed in the future.
