Last night’s star studded season launch was a reflection of how football’s M-League for men and women is such a special sporting competition in the Macarthur region.
Held at the premises of new naming rights sponsor Ottimo House in Denham Court, the launch attracted a former Socceroo, one local mayor, a deputy mayor, two state MPs and the chairman of A-League new boys Macarthur FC Bulls, among others.
The former Socceroo was Mile Sterjovski, a member of the national team’s o called “golden generation’’, who is now assistant coach to Ante Milicic at the Bulls.
Camden mayor Theresa Fedeli was present, while Cr Rey Manoto represented the mayor of Campbelltown, George Brticevic.
Greg Warren and Anoulack Chanthivong were the two MPs in attendance, as was Gino Marra, the part owner and chairman of Macarthur FC.
Rounding off the list of VIPs was Darcy Lound, deputy mayor of Campbelltown and the chairman of the Macarthur Football Association.
Salv Carmusciano, the general manager of the association, was also MC at the launch of the M-League, which will kick off on Saturday, March 21.
Representatives of all the participating clubs were also present and some were interviewed by Mr Carmusciano about their chances for season 2020.
He also interviewed Mile Sterjovski, pictured above, about his football career and what’s ahead as assistant coach at the Bulls.
Sterjovski wished all the clubs well, as did his boss, club chairman Gino Marra, when he took to the microphone to provide an update on Macarthur FC.
Also given the microphone to say a few words was Ottimo House venue manager Peter Palermo, pictured here.
He said he was delighted Ottimo would be part of Macarthur’s premier football competition as new naming rights sponsor.
“Football is booming in our region and to be able to play a role in that is very special,’’ Mr Palermo said.
“We love our football and are thrilled Ottimo House can contribute towards taking the game to another level,’’ he said.
For those who may not be sure where or what Ottimo House is, it is a prestige function centre at Denham Court set within a 500 acre property.
Most locals would know it by its old name, Sweeneys or Scenic Hills Riding Ranch.
The name changed to Ottimo House when the property was sold a few years ago.
The M-League sponsorship points to community engagement by the new owners, and Mr Palermo said as much last night.
And they chose well, because both the men’s and women’s M-League competitions have been popular excitement machines in the last few years.
“The M-League is a key part of football in our region,’’ said Darcy Lound during his address.
“The partnership with Ottimo House will add value to our football family,’’ he said.
In 2020 the M-League will boast an expanded eight team competition in both first and reserve grade men’s competitions.
New chums Ingleburn and Eschol Park are expected to add even more spice to the new season.
The season kicks off on Saturday, March 21.
The 2019 men’s champions Gunners will host Eschol Park, Harrington United will take on neighbours Camden Tigers, the losing grand finalists from last season, Narellan Rangers will be up against Mt Annan and Oran Park Rovers will clash with Ingleburn.
In the women, Camden Tigers, who in 2019 won their third straight M-League championship after defeating Ingleburn Eagles 3-2 in a pulsating grand final, will again be hard to stop in 2020.
They told Salv Carmusciano as much when he interviewed them at last night’s season launch.
There’s no doubt the men’s and women Camden Tigers sides will be there or thereabouts again in 2020, but the other clubs may have something to say about that.
Either way the 2020 Ottimo House M-League season is going to be a big hit with the local fans.
To keep up with the M-League fixtures and results visit the association website here.
