The NSW Government has announced it will invest $3.1 million into more than 100 grassroots football projects to help improve facilities and run programs to boost participation as part of the NSW Football Legacy Fund.
As Australia prepares to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, strengthening the football community in northern NSW is key to usher in the next generation of footballers. As part of the state-wide initiative, 21 projects across northern NSW will receive vital funds to help strengthen football in the region.
Successful grant projects
- Wingham Football Club
- Merewether United Football Club
- Tintenbar East Ballina FC
- Ballina Soccer Club
- Tillligerry Football Club
- New Lambton Football Club
- South Cardiff Community Football Club
- Maitland Junior Football Club
- Kyogle Football Club
- Football Far North Coast
- Orara Valley Football Club
- Dudley United Senior Football Club
- Jesmond Football Club
- Kahibah Football Club
- RISE – Coffs Harbour
- Byron Bay Football Club
- Maitland City Council
- City of Newcastle
- New Lambton Football Club
The funding aims to improve football facilities and support infrastructure, increase participation opportunities, and improve female player pathways. In addition, it will also support clubs to develop programs for football at all levels through the construction or upgrade of community facilities as well as leadership and development programs.
Northern NSW Football Interim CEO Peter Haynes said having inclusive facilities will help boost participation for women and girls.
“Funding these projects will significantly improve the experience of women and girls within our game which is a huge win for our football community,” Haynes said.
“As we begin the countdown to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, there is already an enormous buzz around football and this funding will assist local clubs to leverage the community’s excitement by running programs that will drive interest and ultimately participation in the game.”
To encourage increased participation in the sport, Merewether United Football Club has been awarded funds to develop special funded events for young female players.
Nicola De Jong, Club Secretary, Merewether United Football Club said, “Merewether United Football Club is thrilled to be receiving this funding from the NSW Government’s Football Legacy Program. The funds will be used to develop special events to help engage young girls to join the sport and hone their football skills. We’ll also be using the funding to replace old gear to support and recruit the next generation of Matildas.”
More information about the NSW Football Legacy Fund is available here.
Register your club's interest in round two of the NSW Football Legacy Fund here.
