The Macarthur South West Sydney A-League bid team says it’s ready to activate plans for a new club in Sydney’s fastest growing region, “whenever that will be’’.
“We fully understand and accept the decision of the FFA board to defer the process,’’ the bid said in a joint statement by co-chairmen Gino Marra and Lang Walker, along with Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr George Brticevic.
The statement was in response to an FFA announcement that it had culled two of the eight bids and that it would make a decision on whether to proceed with expansion plans at a date to be set in November.
“The expansion process needs to have certainty for all parties,’’ the Macarthur South West Sydney bid team said.
“We are pleased to have been shortlisted in the final six bids, and welcome the opportunity to work in consultation with Football Federation Australia to progress our bid.
“Macarthur South West Sydney A-League bid will stay in the process and promote the bid for inclusion, whether that is next season or 2020-21.
“Our case is compelling. We have an A-League ready stadium in Campbelltown Sports Stadium and two thriving grassroots associations, Southern Districts and Macarthur Football.
“Our true strength is found in the people of the region. We are a dynamic, growing and ambitious community.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“We are the only region with more than a one million people without a professional team from any code.[/social_quote]
“We will deliver the dream of an A-League club to proudly represent Sydney’s south-west. It is just a matter of time.’’
Earlier today the FFA said that after reviewing the eight bids, it was decided to undertake further due diligence and negotiations with six remaining bids, Southern Expansion (NSW), Macarthur South West Sydney (NSW), Western Melbourne (VIC), Team 11 (VIC), South Melbourne (VIC) and Canberra (ACT).
FFA chief executive officer David Gallop said the decision meant bids from Wollongong Wolves and Ipswich Pride FC will not be considered for a licence at this time.
“Since receiving the eight bids, we have carefully evaluated information provided and commitments made by the bidding parties. It was clear certain bids were stronger than others,’’ Mr Gallop said.
“We have six bids that all have positive aspects but require further work in certain areas. We need to continue our consultation with those bid teams to ensure that they adequately address these areas to ensure their future sustainability, which includes securing stadia, catchment area and financial capital.
“It is critical that FFA can be satisfied the successful bidders will be sustainable from day one as well as meet a variety of commitments that will benefit the longer-term growth of the Hyundai A-League.
“It is universally acknowledged that expansion of the Hyundai A-League is an important next step forward,’’ Mr Gallop said.
“We know it will provide a shot in the arm for our game by providing more opportunities for young Australian footballers, bringing in new fans and engaging new communities.
“We look forward to continuing to work with these groups, the existing clubs and other stakeholders to make expansion a success for the whole of football.
“FFA will continue to work towards expansion in the next season of the Hyundai A-League should it be satisfied the remaining bids address some of these outstanding issues.’’
FFA, with the support of lead adviser Deloitte, will now continue to work with remaining bidders to finalise plans for expansion to present at the next meeting of the FFA Board, which will be held soon after the annual general meeting in November.
