Football4all Club Programs return

FROM-FOOTBALLER-TO-BAKER-13

Football4all club programs for players of all abilities recommenced in July once again, in line with the return of Community Football after the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were eased.

Football NSW were on hand and visited a couple of these well-run programs as the picturesque Birchgrove Oval was the scene as Balmain & District FC hosted Marrickville FC from the Canterbury District Soccer Football Association on Saturday 1st of August.

Both clubs have struck a fantastic connection in recent years as they meet regularly throughout the football season as well as playing key roles in introducing players to the game.

Balmain & District FC have been successfully running their Football4all program for seven years with Club Vice President and Coach John Thomson proud of how his club has promoted this to the wider football community.

“We offer the opportunity for the kids to have a sporting experience through football which includes wearing a uniform, learning skills and playing in a match.

“Most weeks, the match is just with the players within our club, but a few times a year we play Marrickville.

“A real rivalry and friendship has developed over the years and playing Marrickville allows the players to experience playing other clubs and competing for fun but also to win.

“The Balmain players were delighted last week when they one for the first time in a couple of years.”

Marrickville FC have also been running their Football4all program for the last five years with Club Life Member and coach Pierre Milet echoing Thomson’s comments on how far the game has grown.

“The kids look forward to meeting with Balmain & District FC as they get so excited to be playing a real match.

“From the coaches perspective, it gives us a good chance to see our team progress and develop.

“They are having fun and are very proud to represent their club.

“We’re looking forward to meeting with new clubs in the future.”

Click here to view all Football4all programs currently running or you can contact Football NSW’s Inclusion and Diversity Coordinator Charlotte Ercil on charlottee@footballnsw.com.au or 02 8814 4459