Locals are being encouraged to rally behind a Campbelltown City Council-led bid for an A-League team, United for Macarthur, to play out of Campbelltown Sports Stadium from the start of the 2019 season.
Football Federation Australia has called for Expressions of Interest for two new teams in the competition – and council is calling on the local community, businesses and investors to support the bid.
Camden and Wollondilly Councils, local State and Federal MPs, the Macarthur Football Association and businesses have already lent their support to the bid for a community-based and owned team.
Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr George Brticevic, said the Macarthur community loved their football, and news of the local bid had attracted a great deal of excitement and enthusiasm.
“We have a unique opportunity for the FFA, where they can establish a new A-League team in a region that will strengthen the A-League competition and the national football base by growing new supporters of the game,” he said.
“There will be many benefits to the local community – in terms of an economic boost and putting Macarthur on the map, fostering a sense of pride, and inspiring and providing professional pathways for our young players.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The benefits flow both ways, though, with the Macarthur bid also bringing lots to the table in terms of a tried and tested football stadium, with parking and easy access to public transport; a growing and enthusiastic supporter and player base; and business and community support.”[/social_quote]
Macarthur Football Association general manager, Matt Adamson, said a Macarthur A-League team would be ideal in providing our rapidly growing population with a sporting team to call their own.
“More importantly, the team will be an avenue of aspiration for local kids to one day represent their home region as a professional footballer at the highest level,” he said.
Cr Brticevic said the United for Macarthur bid team would be out and about in the community during the next six weeks with bid mascots Mac, Arthur and Unity.
“I encourage locals to come up and say hello, take a selfie and most importantly, find out more about how you can support our community’s bid, and be United for Macarthur,” he said.
Football fans can find out more, or register their support by visiting unitedformacarthur.com.au, or join in on the #U4M conversations on Facebook.
