08 MAY 2024 | ISSUE 547 | FREE
GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES
112 MEMBERS BUT NO FIELD OF DREAMS
Soccer in Australia is widely popular and has a large following with a significant number of participants. It attracts people of all ages and backgrounds, who share an interest in the game and a passion for its exhilarating nature. Soccer is a symbol of unity that brings people together and inspires them to achieve their goals. The popularity of soccer in Australia continues to grow across all demographics and in Nagambie the growth has been exponential.
for an All Girls league, and we are very proud and excited to see that come to fruition this year.
their teams, have fun together, exercise and simply enjoy the awesome sport soccer is.
Every time either one of those two get the ball you wonder what they're going to come up with.
With a growing list of participants registered comes an army of volunteers that the club are grateful for.
“Nagambie SC has submitted two U12 teams in the girls league, and they are currently holding both the first and second position on their ladder.
Despite having no field of dreams, Nagambie Soccer Club continues to thrive with 112 members thanks to their unwavering dedication and passion for the sport.
“We have thirty plus parents who volunteer as coaches, team managers, etc.
It was obvious from the get go that Phil and Anna’s passion for soccer goes further than purely the game.
“And then I have to mention Kossovare Assllani, who is the captain for the Swedish women's team and most recently took home the Bronze in the Australian World Cup. She is a selfless player who gives her everything for her team. Even though she mostly plays as attacking midfielder, she's always more focused on the team winning than scoring goals herself,” ended Anna.
Four years ago, Anna and Phil Close took the initiative to start the Nagambie Soccer Club. “From the very beginning we've been working alongside some amazing volunteers. The list of parents who have been part of making this club what it is today, is very long, but we simply have to mention Allen and Kath Treble and Cassie Galvin, who are part of our core crew. Nagambie Soccer Club would not be where it is today without them,” said Anna.
“The majority of players come from Nagambie, but we also have many kids from Euroa, Avenel and Seymour. Some travel from further away, like Murchison and even Mansfield. We are the only soccer club in Strathbogie Shire, and since we started four years ago, we've seen an increased interest in the sport. With no soccer pitch in Nagambie, all games are played in Shepparton, however the Nagambie Primary School is home to the Nagambie Soccer Club for training purposes.
“We have 112 players registered to play this year spread across 12 teams and for the first time ever, we are submitting four all girls teams to the Shepparton League,” said Anna.
“Nagambie Primary School has been incredibly generous, letting us use their oval and school grounds for our training. But with the rapid increase we've seen, we are struggling to provide the kids with equipment. Currently, our most pressing need is goals, a container to store our things in, and lights, as it is starting to get very dark in the afternoons.
“On the back of the Matildas very successful World Cup campaign, we took the initiative to advocate
“We've had an amazing start to the season! It's been so wonderful to see all the kids take ownership of
The journey began with three teams and 30 players, fast forward to 2024 and the registrations are at 112.
“Both Phil and I love soccer, but our real passion is these kids. Since the very start of NSC, we've emphasized inclusion, and having a culture where all players feel seen, valued, appreciated, and like they belong. “Being Swedish, and coming from a rather successful soccer nation - at least on the women's side - I do love winning, that's what we train for. But more important than winning games will always be making each kid feel like a winner, and that's got nothing to do with what's on the scoreboard. We asked Anna who her favourite soccer player was? “That's a difficult one... Can I pick three? Obviously the Matildas have an amazing lineup but two of the players whose style and energy really appeals to me are Mary Fowler and Katrina Gorry. Mary has a style of playing that is fearless, innovative and energetic. Gorry is reliable, loyal, and strong.
There is no doubt that the Nagambie Soccer Club is a vibrant community of 112 members, but the town's growth presents challenges that demand action. Chief among them is the lack of public land to create a second sporting precinct. The field of dreams could feature soccer fields, sporting ovals, basketball courts, and amenities for the Little Athletics Club. By providing top-tier infrastructure and facilities, Nagambie can inspire residents to lead active and healthy lifestyles, promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and physical well-being, benefiting the entire community. Whether it is a seasoned player or a beginner, soccer has something to offer everyone who seeks to experience the thrill of the game. Registrations for the 2024 season have now closed but for anyone interested in playing the 2025 season, follow the Nagambie Soccer Club Facebook page where try-outs and registration days will be advertised.