The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 continues to drive a momentum for football activity - the latest example was the delivery by the NSW State Government of more than $3.2 million from round two of the NSW Football Legacy Fund.
More than 90 community football projects received funding for new facilities and participation initiatives that will benefit community football. The funding is part of the NSW government's $10 million NSW Football Legacy Program that is supporting the construction of new and upgraded facilities, participation initiatives, high performance, leadership and development programs as well as tourism and international engagement as a direct result of NSW hosting games at the tournament.
Football Far North Coast successfully sought funds including an amount of $14,750 to facilitate a Club Respect Program and $9300 to support a Referee Recruitment, Retention, Development and Coaching Program.
Ballina Soccer Club was successful in receiving $4183 for the purpose of running Junior Development and Goalkeeping Programs.
Twenty participation projects across the broad Northern NSW Football footprint were successful.
Although the 2023 has almost concluded, plans are well advanced for next season and Football Far North Coast General Manager Steve Mackney says that he was delighted when notification was received about the success of the applications lodged.
"The opportunity to progress objectives that are underpinned by our commitment to generate more recruitment, retention and development of match officials, are closely linked to evolving a more positive culture within the game', Mackney said.
Investment into the game through these programs will bring better outcomes.
- Steve Mackney, Football Far North Coast
"Investment into the game through these programs will bring better outcomes and I applaud the NSW State Government for the vision of leveraging the success of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 by making significant funds available.'
For further information on the NSW Football Legacy Fund including the full list of recipients go to www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants.
Mackney highlighted other grants opportunities, including the Local Sport Grant Program for 2023-24 now open that invites applications within the range of $2000 - $20,000. There is $50,000 available per state electorate.
"Clubs are encouraged to consider mechanisms to work collaboratively with their respective council, local State Member, Federal Member, in addition to Football Far North Coast and Northern NSW Football, when formulating grant applications and when making an assessment of priorities and design of facilities", Mackney concluded.
Applications close at 1pm Monday, November 27.
About the successful projects
- Ballina Soccer Club for Junior Development and Goalkeeping Coaching Programs. Junior development program for 10-14 year olds and goalkeeping coaching sessions for aged 10 - seniors run by qualified coaches (supported by club coaches) to develop player skills and confidence, encourage higher level participation and support volunteer coach development. Ballina Shire Council $4183.
- Football Far North Coast Incorporated for Club Respect Program for Football Far North Coast Zone Clubs. A series of facilitated workshops for grassroots football clubs to promote awareness and provide practical tools to build and maintain a respect based club culture. Ballina Shire Council $14,750.
- Football Far North Coast Incorporated for Referee Recruitment, Retention, Development and Coaching Program. Programs targeted at recruiting, retaining, developing and coaching referees. Lismore City Council $9300.
