“One of our goals is to bring female football back to Parramatta FC and Melita Stadium,” Sadler said.
“We have seen the impact FIFA WWC 2019 had for France; imagine what it will do for Australia and New Zealand, hosting it for the first time.
“The big thing we need right now is funding to help bring the facility up to standard for such a prestigious event; the stadium is still in good condition in comparison to many others, but it would be great to modernise it so the community can get the full benefit before and after this world event takes place.”
GDSFA now has its fingers crossed hoping Cumberland Council and the NSW Government will approve their funding requests to allow them to complete the upgrade by the facility works deadline of March 2023.
“It is a fantastic opportunity but we need to start moving since 2023 will be here before we know it,” Sadler added.
World best eye off stadium
IN an exciting win for female football in the local area, Granville and Districts Soccer Football Association (GDSFA), in partnership with Parramatta FC, have been successful in having Melita Stadium chosen as a potential training venue for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
With two FIFA inspections scheduled for June 28 and July 5, GDSFA General Manager Scott Sadler says the purpose of those will be to assess the Auburn facilities to see if they come up to scratch.
“We have a good chance of being selected since the grounds are in such great condition,” he said.
“However, to give us the best possible chance, the lighting needs to be upgraded and we need to bring the building into the 21st century and make it accessible to all.”
As well as being involved with the FIFA WWC 2023, having an upgraded facility would help GDSFA grow female football at a grassroots, local level.