Adults and juniors across South Australia are flocking to football (soccer), with the state’s peak body Football SA projecting participation numbers to increase by a third over the next three years in the wake of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
To meet the expected demand driven by the tournament, the Malinauskas Government and Football SA are partnering to deliver $20 million for women’s and girls’ football in South Australia over the next three years.
Having anticipated the impact the FIFA Women’s World Cup would have on the state, the Malinauskas Government last year announced $1 million of legacy funding that allowed Football SA to deploy development officers to SA’s regions, resulting in 16% growth to date in the World Game outside of metropolitan Adelaide.
Football SA are also anticipating a 50% increase to their school-based competitions by 2026.
The domestic impact of the event was demonstrated on Wednesday night when more than 11 million people tuned in to the Matildas Semi Final on Seven and 7+, in what was the most watched program in Australian television history.
Quotes attributable to Katrine Hildyard
"The brilliant Matildas and the FIFA Women’s World Cup have changed football, sport and attitudes about women forever; their legacy will make a profound difference for generations to come."
"These magnificent athletes have inspired thousands of girls and boys, women and men to take to the pitch and have a go with clubs reporting that their email inboxes are filled with parents looking for teams – for their children – and for themselves!"
"We are determined to work with Football SA and clubs in every corner of the state to facilitate this growing desire to get involved."
"Our $1 million in legacy funding has enabled Football SA to employ participation officers in the regions and our $20 million investment in partnership with them will help ensure there is a place in football for everyone who wants to lace up their boots!"
Quotes attributable to Michael Carter, CEO Football SA
"The CommBank Matildas have been embraced by the entire country. The team has provided an aspirational reference point for young boys and girls and we expect the impact on participation to be significant."
"Investing in new and improved spaces to play will have a profound impact on Football’s ability to cater for the growth and we thank the Malinauskas Government for partnering with Football SA to achieve a great outcome for the community."