NWS Spirit FC’s $1.9M Grant: Election Pledge for Synthetic Fields

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Image Credit: NWS Spirit FC website

NWS Spirit FC has confirmed a potential $1.9 million grant to assist in funding the construction of five new synthetic fields build at Christie Park.

Member for Bennelong, Jerome Laxale MP, has pledged a re-elected Albanese Government will help fund five new small-sided synthetic fields at Christie Park, building on the work he began as Mayor of Ryde.

The Christie Park Small-Sided Synthetic Fields Project marks the next phase of the Master Plan, expanding on earlier improvements like the addition of a new amenities building and training facilities that was initiated in 2015.

“With the immense growth of women’s football, alongside our growing population, this upgrade will help more locals get on the field, free up space on our natural grass fields, and enable the establishment of a stand alone futsal style comp here in Bennelong,” he said via a post on Facebook.

The club views this as a fantastic win for the players, families, and supporters, providing the facilities they need to train, play, and thrive—no matter the weather.

What this would means for NWS Spirit FC & the local football community:

  • More playing space to support our growing club and grassroots football.
  • Year-round access, eliminating washed-out games and cancelled training sessions.
  • Enhanced facilities for junior development, helping the next generation of footballers succeed.
  • A community-focused investment that makes the most of our sporting infrastructure.

Jerome Laxale MP expresses his long-term commitment to the cause, and his efforts to continue to develop sporting clubs in the future.

“I’ve been working to finish Christie Park since my first days on Ryde Council. Today’s announcement is a huge next step, I’ll always work hard for sporting clubs across Bennelong,” he said via a post on Facebook.

The club states they have worked closely with Jerome Laxale and all levels of government for years to bring this project to life.

“We are proud to support this announcement and look forward to seeing these new facilities become a reality and want to thank Jerome for his continued support of our club and sport,” the club said via press release.

NWS Spirit FC expresses their gratitude towards Jerome for his ongoing support of the club and the sport, with working closely alongside the club and all government levels to bring this project to life.

Calling all their members to spread the word and celebrate the investment in Christie Park’s future, the club insists on sharing this announcement on social media, in hopes of making this dream a reality.

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South Melbourne Hellas Strengthens Its Future with Three Key Board Appointments

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Image Credit: South Melbourne FC
South Melbourne Hellas has taken another significant step in shaping its future, announcing the appointment of three highly accomplished professionals to its Board of Directors as the club continues to strengthen its leadership both on and off the field.

The Hon. Philip Dalidakis, John Karantzis and Associate Professor Marinis Pirpiris join the club at an important stage, bringing expertise across government, law, healthcare and corporate governance as South Melbourne continues to pursue its long-term ambitions.

Few football clubs in Australia can match South Melbourne’s proud history, but the club’s focus is firmly on the future. The latest appointments reflect a deliberate commitment to building a Board with the experience and strategic capability required to support sustained growth and success.

Dalidakis brings extensive experience across government, business and public policy. A former Victorian Cabinet Minister and C-suite executive, he is the Managing Partner of Orizontas and currently represents Australia on the APEC Business Advisory Council. He also holds board positions across the life sciences, defence and social impact sectors, and has chaired audit and risk committees across a range of organisations.

Karantzis is a Partner and Head of Personal Injury Law and Litigation at Carbone Lawyers, with more than 28 years of experience. Accredited as a Specialist in Personal Injury Law by the Law Institute of Victoria, he has also been recognised by Doyle’s Guide as one of Victoria’s leading plaintiff lawyers and litigators.

Pirpiris is an internationally recognised orthopaedic surgeon, academic and healthcare leader. A consultant surgeon at Epworth and Cabrini Hospitals, he specialises in robotic hip and knee replacement, arthritis management and sports injury care, and is a Fellow of both the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and the Australian Orthopaedic Association.

Co-Presidents Bill Papastergiadis and Andrew Mesourouni said the appointments were about more than adding credentials to the Board.
“Philip, Marinis and John are exactly the kind of people South Melbourne Hellas needs at Board level right now,” they said.
“Each brings exceptional expertise in their respective fields, but just as importantly, they understand what this club represents. Their connection to South Melbourne’s values, history and community makes them a natural fit as we continue building for the future.”

The appointments form part of an ongoing renewal of the club’s leadership, reinforcing South Melbourne’s commitment to strong governance as it builds on its proud football tradition.

ParaMatilda to headline Frankston Pines’ new cerebral palsy program

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Image Credit: Football Victoria

A ParaMatilda will appear at Frankston Pines Soccer Club on Saturday as the club launches Victoria’s newest cerebral palsy football program during Football Victoria’s first dedicated Para Engagement Round.

The event, part of Round 7 of the All Abilities League Junior & Youth divisions, runs at Monterey Reserve, Monterey Boulevard, Frankston North. Children and young people with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury or stroke-related symptoms can register for come-and-try sessions and meet current para athletes.

The ParaMatildas are the reigning world champions after winning the 2024 IFCPF Women’s World Cup. The victory made them the first Australian national football side to win a World Cup at any level. Goalkeeper and captain Katelyn Smith scored a hat-trick in the 6-2 final win over the United States.

The round coincides with Frankston Pines’ official launch of its new cerebral palsy football program. The club has organised a day including a Beyond the Limits cerebral palsy football showcase, community market stalls, face painting, a colouring competition, a jumping castle, fairy floss and a free sausage sizzle.

The event also raises awareness of Football Victoria’s upcoming Para Pathways Clinics, which will provide children and young people with neurological conditions an opportunity to explore the para football pathway. Further details about the clinics will be released soon.

The engagement round builds on the growth of Victoria’s All Abilities League, which has expanded from a single division in 2017 to 20 teams across four divisions representing 12 clubs this season.

Football Victoria launched its Disability Football Framework in December 2025, a strategic initiative to strengthen the delivery of disability football programs across the state. The Framework sets direction for FV’s work, guiding the development of new resources, guidance and minimum standards that clubs can use in the future.

FV All Abilities & Inclusion Programs Coordinator Selin Arpaci, named Administrator of the Year at the 2025 Victorian Disability Sport & Recreation Awards, said the framework marked a shift from ad hoc delivery to a structured approach.

“We’re no longer doing things just because they’ve always been done that way,” Arpaci said. “Our approach is now intentional, structured, and genuinely supportive for players, clubs and the community”.

Access remains a focus. The 2024-25 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, funded by the Victorian Government, have supported clubs including Mitchell Rangers, Traralgon Olympians and Phillip Island Soccer Club to establish or expand all abilities programs.

Football Victoria has also partnered with Powerchair Sports Victoria to strengthen pathways for people with disabilities, while monthly women and girls cerebral palsy football sessions now run at The Home of the Matildas.

Frankston Pines has been a regular participant in the All Abilities League, with its inclusive program providing opportunities for people with physical, psychosocial or intellectual disabilities to participate in a supportive environment.

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