West Griffith Soccer Club Celebrated as October’s Club Changer Club of the Month

Football NSW has recognised West Griffith Soccer Club as its Club Changer Club of the Month for October, celebrating the club’s outstanding commitment to creating a positive, inclusive and sustainable environment for players, volunteers, officials and supporters.

Club Changer is Football Australia’s club development program designed to support clubs in becoming stronger, more resilient and better equipped for long-term success. Through the program, clubs are guided to improve their governance, participation, volunteer engagement and overall club culture.

West Griffith Soccer Club’s dedication to building a welcoming community football environment has seen the club achieve significant growth in recent seasons, particularly through its focus on increasing opportunities for women and girls.

A Club Built on Volunteers and Community

Griffith District Football Association President John Carbone praised West Griffith for the important role its volunteers have played in shaping the club’s continued development.

“West Griffith Soccer Club is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when passionate volunteers come together with a shared commitment to their club and community,” Carbone said.

“Over the last few seasons, we’ve seen the club go from strength to strength, particularly in its efforts to grow female football and encourage more women to become involved as coaches, referees and volunteers.

“This progress is credit to the countless hours of hard work put in by its committee, coaches, team managers and volunteers behind the scenes.

“Community football simply wouldn’t exist without volunteers, and West Griffith has demonstrated how a positive, inclusive and supportive culture can make a real difference.”

Growing Opportunities for Women and Girls

Under the leadership of its dedicated volunteer network, West Griffith has made significant progress in creating more opportunities for women and girls to participate in football in a variety of roles.

Over a 12-month period, the club achieved a 53 per cent increase in female players, a 100 per cent increase in female coaches, and introduced two female referees, helping provide greater representation and positive role models throughout the club.

West Griffith President Shane Upcroft said the club’s progress has been driven by the passion and commitment of its volunteers.

“Over the past three years, West Griffith Soccer Club has focused on building a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable community football club, with volunteers at the heart of everything we do,” Upcroft said.

“Our progress has been driven by a passionate group of volunteers who generously contribute their time, skills and energy to ensure our players have the opportunity to enjoy football in a positive and supportive environment.

“From committee members, coaches and team managers to canteen helpers, referees, ground officials and the parents who lend a hand each weekend, our club simply couldn’t operate without them.”

Upcroft highlighted the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.

“We’ve worked hard to create a club culture where people feel welcome, valued and supported to get involved, regardless of their experience or background.

“One of our priorities has been encouraging more people to become involved in the club, particularly women and girls. We’ve seen a significant increase in female involvement, not only as players but also as coaches, referees and volunteers.”

Strengthening the Club Through Club Changer

West Griffith’s involvement in Football Australia’s Club Changer program has played an important role in supporting the club’s ongoing development.

The club has achieved 2-Star Club Changer status and was recognised among the Top 20 Club Changer of the Year clubs, highlighting its commitment to continuous improvement and creating a stronger football environment.

Support through the Growing Football Fund has also helped West Griffith further develop opportunities for women and girls, with the club’s achievements reflecting the collective efforts of its volunteers.

“West Griffith has achieved 2-Star Club Changer status and was recognised among the Top 20 Club Changer of the Year clubs,” Upcroft said.

“These achievements are a reflection of the collective effort of our volunteers, who have embraced new ideas, supported change and worked together to build a stronger club.”

Recognising a Forward-Thinking Club

Football NSW Program Manager for Club Development, Trevor Huxley, congratulated West Griffith on its well-deserved recognition.

“It’s great to see West Griffith Soccer Club go from strength to strength in the volunteering space, and being awarded the Club Changer Club of the Month is testament to all their hard work,” Huxley said.

West Griffith Soccer Club’s story highlights the impact community clubs can have when volunteers, players and supporters work together towards a shared vision.

Through its focus on inclusion, participation and volunteer recognition, the club continues to demonstrate the positive role football can play in bringing communities together.

Clubs interested in learning more about Club Changer can contact trevorh@footballnsw.com.au or visit the Football NSW Club Changer webpage.