Roger Hampel
Melbourne City FC, in partnership with the City of Casey, has officially opened the doors to the City Football Academy MelbourneĀ at Casey Fields. This premier facility, inaugurated on April 10 by City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff PSM and Melbourne City FC Vice Chairman Simon Pearce, is set to revolutionize football training and community engagement in Australia.
A Hub for Football Excellence and Community Involvement
Located in the vibrant municipality of Casey, the 5,900m2 facility is not just a new home for Melbourne City FC's elite A-League Menās and Womenās teams, but also for its six Youth Academy teams and Administration department. This significant development is poised to raise the bar for football excellence nationally.
The facility was constructed with substantial local investment, with the City of Casey contributing $12.3 million of the $18.7 million total cost. It features two and a half grass pitches, three synthetic fields, 16 changerooms, a 60-seat theatrette, hydrotherapy pools, dual gyms, community classrooms, and extensive sports medicine and science facilities.
Community at the Core
In addition to serving as a training ground for top athletes, the City Football Academy will host the Clubās charity arm, City in the Community, and the Melbourne City Football School, emphasizing the facility's role in local and grassroots engagement. The academy will also be accessible for casual community use, welcoming not-for-profit organizations, local football clubs, schools, and commercial groups from Casey and beyond.
Noelene Duff emphasized the dual focus of the facility, stating, "Our partnership with Melbourne City FC will allow residents to engage with the Club through football pathways, leadership development programs, and participation in community programs." She expressed enthusiasm for the local youth benefiting from the proximity to professional setups and mentors.
A Future-focused Facility
Brad Rowse, CEO of Melbourne City FC, shared his excitement at the launch: "This amazing facility will bring together our Menās, Womenās, Academy, and Administration teams, fostering an environment where we can train, share ideas, and challenge each other daily." He highlighted the Clubās commitment to innovation and positive community impact, noting that the academy is ideally placed amidst thousands of family homes.
The academy is more than just a sports facility; it is a cornerstone for future expansions including a proposed Womenās Centre of Excellence, which will further establish the City Football Academy as a pivotal venue for womenās sports.
Setting New Standards
The City Football Academy Melbourne at Casey Fields is a testament to the power of community collaboration in sports. By providing world-class facilities and engaging local talent and enthusiasts, Melbourne City FC and the City of Casey are not only nurturing future football stars but also cementing their roles as leaders in sports development and community engagement in Australia.
Source: Melbourne City FC Media
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