Update on bid for the NST

23 November 2023

 

MEDIA RELEASE: Update on Tasmanian football team bid for National Second Tier.

 

South Hobart Football Club is excited by the announcement from Football Australia made earlier this week in relation to the new National Second Tier (NST) competition, and wish to congratulate the eight foundation clubs that have been selected.

 

South Hobart FC are delighted to learn that there will be a formal opportunity in early 2024 for up to four (4) additional foundation clubs to be selected to join the inaugural competition commencing in April 2025.

 

South Hobart FC was established in 1910, and as one of Australia’s oldest football clubs, remains fully committed to representing the state of Tasmania in the NST. Victoria Morton, President of South Hobart FC, added “we are continuing to develop and refine our bid, supported by key stakeholders including the State Government”.

 

The case for a Tasmanian-based team is unique and defined by economic and social drivers across the wider Tasmanian community. We wish to acknowledge the overwhelming support for a Tasmanian bid reflected by letters of support from NPL and WSL clubs across the state, from junior soccer associations, and elected members for State and Federal parliament. 

 

South Hobart FC  believes we can add value to the Australian football ecosystem and foster the continued growth of the game in Tasmania. Our case for inclusion in the NST is highlighted by the following points: 

 

  • Tasmania participating and competing on the national stage in Australia’s highest participation team sport.

  • Developing player pathways in Tasmania for local talent to represent their state in a national community club competition.

  • Growing the game for players, coaching, referees, and administrators – including a focus on female participation with the goal of achieving parity across all levels.

  • Promoting Tasmania as a destination experience – driving visitation around home matches and promoting Tasmania as an attractive place to live.

  • Thriving communities focused on enhanced physical activity, social cohesion, and general wellbeing in Tasmania.

 

Selection in the NST would represent a significant step forward for the State of Tasmania – aspirations for a healthier and active Tasmania, and more broadly for a richer and more robust community sporting landscape in Tasmania.

 

We are currently waiting on formal feedback regarding our proposal and our intention is to engage in Football Australia’s formal application process early in the new year. South Hobart FC will continue to provide further updates in due course.

 

END

 

For further information please contact:

Ed Swan on 0409 555 010 or vicepresident.southhobartfc@gmail.com

Or

Victoria Morton on 0417 597 643 or president.southhobartfc@gmail.com

 

Ed Swan