Stuart Hodge addresses future for Football NSW

Stuart Hodge

Football NSW Chief Executive Officer Stuart Hodge has addressed key topics on the association’s radar in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking on the CDSFA Community Football Podcast, Hodge is keen for the league to restart as soon as it’s safe to do so.

“I certainly think the government have to take in a lot of factors as we’ve seen with the pandemic – anything can change one day to the next,” he said.

“It was a positive step forward that they’ve got the national principles and the government and NSW will now review those and look at guidelines.

“They’ll have to balance that up with other information that they have and state-specific information here in NSW.

“We’re hopeful given that from some of the surveys which we’ve seen that most people are keen to get out and play again.

“The physical, mental and social benefits are well documented, but we have to make sure we do it under the right conditions and that is when the government says it’s okay.”

The flow on effect of the competition’s postponement will be how clubs juggle summer sports with councils if they clash later down the line, something Hodge is aware of.

“It’s a challenge for all of them and we’re in discussions with some summer sports to try and get some principles in place that if we get football resumed, we’ll have some additional time beyond what we normally get,” he said.

“From some associations, the feedback is from councils have been very sympathetic.

“We’ve collectively lost a couple months of the season already so the opportunity to play a little bit later into the year would be welcomed.

“We’re also conscious that we want to try and keep things on track for next year when hopefully we return on time.

“It’s a balance because we appreciate that there’s also participants that are involved in multiple sports so we’re wanting to help them out and not over-burden them.

“Councils also need to turn fields around although I noticed some of them looking magnificent at the moment.

“We’ve had some very big discussions and hopefully it’s just a fair and reasonable approach which is all we’re asking for.”

One of the main issues across all sports due to postponements has been the topic of refunds, with games in professional sport being played behind closed doors.

While there’s still the unknown about when fans can return to grounds in 2020 and beyond, Hodge has clarified how Football NSW will look to navigate through this tricky time.

“I think in the interim if people are facing financial hardship then of course they should be in touch with their club to get a refund,” Hodge said.

“If the season gets underway then we’ll have to redo our modelling and look at what the fee structures are.

“I hope we do get back on the field and we can go down that path – if the season doesn’t get played then everyone will have to sit and remodel what the costs are and things like that.”

Since this podcast was published on 5th May, Football NSW have moved a step closer to resuming training at the very least with the NSW Government confirming an easing of restrictions – taking affect from Friday 15th May including:

  • outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people
  • cafes and restaurants can seat 10 patrons at any one time
  • up to 5 visitors to a household at any one time
  • weddings up to 10 guests
  • indoor funerals up to 20 mourners, outdoor funerals up to 30
  • religious gatherings/places of worship up to 10 worshipers
  • use of outdoor equipment with caution
  • outdoor pools open with restrictions.

In a recent press release, it’s mentioned the Office of Sport is working closely with government agencies about how sporting organisations can safely return to action.

Previous ArticleNext Article

Optus joins Football Queensland as Telco Partner in the North

Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed its collaboration with Optus, naming the leading telecommunication provider as its Official Telecommunications Partner across the Northern, Far North and Gulf regions.

The collaboration will see Optus play an active role in supporting grassroots football throughout the year-long partnership, with a visible presence at FQ precincts in both Cairns and Townsville. This will include branded signage and community-focused activations at key events, further enhancing the matchday experience for players, families, and fans.

FQ General Manager – Northern Conference, Craig Ramage, said the partnership will be a valuable boost for local communities and reflects FQ’s commitment to growing the game in regional areas.

“Football Queensland is excited to expand its long-standing relationship with Optus as we enter into a thriving partnership in the Northern and Far North & Gulf regions,” he said via press release.

“It is excellent to have a brand as prominent as Optus recognise the importance of grassroots football in regional areas.

“Optus’ year-long support will provide a crucial boost that directly benefits clubs and participants across the region, strengthening communities and actively contributing to FQ’s vision for the future of football.”

Optus General Manager North Queensland, Dave Morrissey, emphasised the importance of the North Queensland football community and Optus’ commitment to supporting the next generation as they develop into future stars of the game.

“It is our absolute pleasure to partner with Football Queensland’s Northern and Far North regions. It is great to get to watch the next generation of young players grow their skills and love for the game, and we appreciate all the support we get in return from the local community,” he said via press release.

Football communities attending events and matches at Paradise Park and Macca’s Park can expect to see Optus actively involved throughout the season, with a strong presence around the grounds that reflects the brand’s commitment to regional engagement and sporting development.

Football Australia CEO James Johnson to step down

Chief Executive Officer of Football Australia, James Johnson has advised the Board of his decision to resign.

Mr Johnson’s decision marks the end of his 5½-year term as CEO of the sport’s governing body, during which he, together with the Board, the Football Australia team, and the wider football community, led one of the most successful eras in Australian football history.

During his tenure, Mr Johnson steered Australian football through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the sport reach record participation levels. Under his leadership, Football Australia launched a 15-year strategic vision, achieved unprecedented revenue growth, implemented significant reforms such as Club Licensing Regulations and updates to the Player Transfer System, and revitalised the Australia Cup by linking it to Asia via the AFC Club Competitions.

Mr Johnson oversaw Football Australia’s successful bid for and hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, a globally acclaimed event that marked a cultural turning point for sport in Australia. During his time as CEO, Football Australia also secured hosting rights for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and elevated both the men’s and women’s national teams into prominent global sporting brands, each achieving their best-ever results at the FIFA World Cup 2022™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

In a reflection on his time at the helm, James Johnson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Football Australia over the past 5½ years, highlighting the dedication and talent of the colleagues he worked with throughout his tenure.

“It has been a privilege to lead Football Australia for the past 5½ years, having had the pleasure to work alongside the most talented, committed and dedicated staff, executives and board members,” he said via press release.

“As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

“I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football.”

The Football Australia Board has appointed current director and former Matilda, Heather Garriock, as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Most Popular Topics

Editor Picks

Send this to a friend