Young Football talent to kick goals

Minister for Multiculturalism Ray Williams has announced $150,000 for a two-year project introducing young people to football and assisting the transition to club sport.

Mr Williams made the announcement in Granville, at a football clinic engaging young people from diverse backgrounds.

“This is an outstanding program which will reach up to hundreds of young people across Western Sydney and regional NSW,” Mr Williams.

“Community FC will be offered to culturally diverse, Indigenous and newly arrived groups who may not have access to grassroots football due to social and or economic barriers.

“Sport is one of the best ways to actively participate in our society and to establish deep networks alongside a sense of belonging and community.”

Football NSW Chief Executive Officer Stuart Hodge said the program was unique.

“Community FC introduces football to individuals who may not have had the opportunity to play the game previously and introduce newly arrived groups into a sport that they will be familiar with. This initiative will offer a direct transition into grassroots club football,” Mr Hodge said.

“Through the grant, Football NSW will be financially supporting participants by reducing the fees to allow them to participate in club football.”

Community FC Ambassador Ola El-Zahab was also present on this day.

“Football is absolutely one of the best levelers in our society,” Ms El-Zahab said.

“As a coach, I am a passionate advocate of the game and have seen the difference it can make to young lives, particularly to girls and women who may not enjoy the same access to sport as their male counterparts.”

The two-year program will be funded under the Multicultural NSW Community Partnership Action (COMPACT) Program. Community FC will be delivered by Football NSW in partnership with SydWest Multicultural Services, Clubs and Associations.

For more information on our programs you can contact Football NSW’s Game Development Officer – Community Charlotte Ercil on 88144 4459