Proctor Park Challenge ready for take off
First it was the Bathurst Cup setting records and now it’s the Proctor Park Challenge’s turn, with a record number of teams entered for the 25th edition of the pre-season girls tournament kicking off this weekend.
An incredible 121 will contest the 2023 Proctor Park Challenge on February 11th -12th, up from the previous best of 97 set the previous year.
Teams will travel from Sydney, Canberra, Newcastle, the South Coast, Albury and the Central West, competing across under 12s, 14s, 15s, 16s and 17s.
Football NSW Development Manager Regional Andrew Fearnley said it’s great to see so many regional teams involved in this year’s tournament.
“The Proctor Park Challenge continues to grow both in numbers, and in our support for the tournament,” he said.
“A record 121 teams will compete from across varying levels within Football NSW, Northern NSW Football and Capital Football.
“We are also adding value with an emphasis on coach development opportunities with Young Matildas’ coach Leah Blayney attending, and myself running a Talent ID Workshop.
“It is a great highlight to see so many regional teams involved amongst a growing number of teams wanting to be involved in such a fantastic event.”
Bathurst District Football President Peter Scott is pleased to welcome so many teams to the fantastic Proctor Park/Police Paddock facilities
“The Proctor Park Challenge is one of the best annual football competitions in NSW, and clubs are always keen to come out and play in Bathurst,” he said.
“We’re extremely thankful for the work Bathurst Regional Council has done at our football complex over the years, which has transformed it into the leading football complex west of the Blue Mountains.”
Scott also praised the Bathurst District Football committee, who have put in tireless hours over the summer to help prepare for the Bathurst Cup.
“Without the service of our volunteers, this competition would not be possible,” he said.
“We have a great team at Bathurst District Football and we’re looking forward to a successful 2023
season.”
Scott also praised the effort of the local football clubs, that support the event including Macquarie United and Eglinton (who served in the canteen at the Proctor Park Challenge), Bathurst 75 and Abercrombie FC (who served in the canteen for the Bathurst Cup), Bathurst City Red Tops (who helped with cooking at both carnivals) and Bathurst Athletic (who helped with cleaning around the complex at both carnivals), with latter two some of the smallest clubs in the association.
The first games will kick-off at 7.10am on Saturday morning, running right through to the final game at 5.50pm on Sunday.
For a complete draw, visit https://nswcomps.dribl.com/fixtures
