BDAFA Kicks Off 2026 Grassroots Season with Strong Community Focus

The 2026 grassroots football season is underway for the Bankstown District Amateur Football Association (BDAFA), and the early signs point towards one of the most positive and progressive years in the association’s history.

With a clear focus on accessibility, community engagement, and growth, BDAFA has rolled out a series of initiatives designed to strengthen participation at all levels of the game.

Under the leadership of General Manager Leanne Millar, the association has set the tone for a season built on inclusion and opportunity.

“At the heart of everything BDAFA does is our community,” Millar stated to Football NSW.

“This season, we’re proud to be keeping football affordable for our children and creating competitions where everyone feels welcome to be part of the game.”

One of the standout initiatives has been the distribution of 2,800 free footballs to every child in kindergarten within the Bankstown association area — a move aimed at inspiring the next generation to fall in love with the game from an early age.

“BDAFA wanted to reach out and connect with the school community, encourage physical activity among children, and build awareness.

“We have had an overwhelmingly positive response.”

Affordability has also been a key priority, with BDAFA capping registration fees for 6- and 7-year-olds at just $50. This initiative ensures that more families can access the game, removing financial barriers and encouraging wider participation across the community.

“Often, the narrative around football is how expensive it is, especially when you have more than one child participating.

“Bankstown football is proud to be one of the most affordable associations in the Sydney metro area.

“This initiative has seen more families interested in starting their child in football, with financial barriers minimised.”

In a further push to expand participation pathways, the association has launched a social Over-35s women’s winter competition, set to kick off midweek in a summer football-style format. The initiative provides a new opportunity for women to stay connected to the game in a fun, flexible, and social environment.

“The winter football format can be daunting to women who have had an extended hiatus from the game or who have never played.

“Reducing the field size and game time makes our game more inviting to those who want to get back out there or have a go.”

Off the field, BDAFA has also taken a significant step forward by officially moving into the Bankstown “Home of Football” office space. The move represents a milestone for the association and reinforces its commitment to building a strong and sustainable future.

“The development of Bankstown’s Home of Football is one of the most significant milestones in the association’s history.

“The synthetic pitch has been in use for the past three years, and now, with the completion of the building, we have a truly multipurpose venue that will serve not only our football community but the wider community as well.”

With these initiatives already making an impact, BDAFA is well-positioned for a standout 2026 season. The focus now turns to maintaining this momentum and continuing to deliver opportunities for players, families, and the wider football community.

As the season unfolds, the association is aiming high, with ambitions of making 2026 one of its strongest years yet.