Local football associations join forces with Macarthur FC

SONY DSC

Football in South West Sydney is about to take the first step of a giant leap forward following the formalising of an agreement between Hyundai A-League newcomers Macarthur FC and three grassroots football associations in the region.

The Macarthur Football Association, Southern Districts Football Association and Bankstown Amateur Football Association, have committed to working closely and collaboratively with Macarthur FC for the benefit of the game in the South West.

Over the next six months, representatives from Macarthur FC will work productively with the three associations, who collectively represent more than 90 clubs and 28,000 players, figures that are set to rise exponentially during the coming years in what is one of the fastest growing regions of Australia.

The agreement kicks off the first stage of Macarthur FC’s community engagement program, with Executive Chairman Rabieh Krayem declaring it to be a pivotal moment for the club and a significant step towards unifying stakeholders for the good of the game.

“The next six months are just the start of what is a firm commitment to work with grassroots stakeholders and Football New South Wales to define the issues, identify possibilities and develop both strategic and practical solutions for the benefit of the game,” Krayem said.

“We want to discover how we can invest in the game so benefits are felt right across the board. As a Hyundai A-League club, of course we will support the local associations and clubs with coach mentoring programs, but this agreement is much more than that.

“It’s about consulting and working together in partnership to create new pathways and opportunities, along with tackling issues such as the cost of playing in the NPL.

“Working together will only make us stronger and more cohesive,” he said.

Macarthur FC Deputy Chairman, Gino Marra was looking forward to the partnerships with the three associations.

“This agreement is an important step for the future growth of the game. We know collaboration, consultation and engagement are the key components of successful stakeholder relationships and we’re thrilled that such a unifying move has taken place at this early stage of our club’s journey.”

Bankstown Football Director, Dimitri Hursalas was happy to see these first steps laid between them and the new Hyundai A-League club.

“We’re delighted that an A-League club has taken the initiative and is leading the way in engaging with the football community. We look forward to a productive relationship with real outcomes for football.”

Southern Districts President, Andy Favaloro pushed the message that the game would only grow with this move.

“Our association was formed in 1946 and is a hotbed of football talent, producing countless Socceroos and Matildas. To now have a Hyundai A-League club to collaborate with means players can continue their development close to home. This will only grow the game and increase the number of elite players produced in this region.”

While finally Macarthur Football Association Chairman, Darcy Lound was eagerly anticipating the commencement of this newly aligned relationship.

“We’re thrilled with this agreement and look forward to building our relationship with Macarthur FC and the other associations. Exploring new pathways for talented footballers, as well as enhancing the experience for community players, is something we’re excited to participate in.”

-Macarthur FC Press Release 

Image: L-R: Darcy Lound (Macarthur FA), Gino Marra (Macarthur FC), Leanne Millar (Bankstown AFA), Andy Favaloro (Southern Districts).