The ‘Play Football’ round is a national initiative aimed at growing participation at grassroots level across the country and will be acknowledged at Saturday’s Melbourne Derby at Etihad Stadium.
Many of the country’s elite players have strong memories of learning their craft at their local clubs and in launching ‘Play Football’ round, Melbourne Victory vice-captain Leigh Broxham recalled his time at his junior club.
“I was at Knox Park initially in the under-7s and I can’t remember who was coaching me there but in the under-8s my coach was Ernie Sobrio, my father’s best mate, so I remember him well,” Broxham said.
“There were some big rivalries against other clubs in my junior days and it was always against Box Hill, Knox City, Berwick and Keilor Park.”
Asked about the highlights of his junior career, Broxham remembered winning a competition akin to the modern-day FFA Cup.
“In the under-11s we won the Vic Cup, which is a state-wide knockout comp and my brother won the under-15s in same year,” he said.
A nine-year player with Melbourne Victory, Broxham offered some advice to aspiring young footballers who harbor dreams of playing at the highest level.
“It’s about enjoying it and as you get older if it’s something you really want to do then it’s about dedicating yourself and believing in yourself,” he said.
“When you’re young, it’s about enjoying the game and seeing if you’re any good at it.”
Register to Play Football at www.myfootballclub.com.au
Players, coaches and referees can register to “Play Football” by logging onto Australia’s biggest online sports registration portal, which can be found at http://www.myfootballclub.com.au/
Get down to the following Centres this weekend to meet your Hyundai A-League heroes and get involved in some fun football activities.
* Newcastle Jets – Westfield Kotara – Saturday 7th February 12.30–2.30pm
* Melbourne City – Westfield Plenty Valley – Sunday 8th February 11am-2pm
* Perth Glory – Westfield Whitford City – Sunday 8th February 11am-2pm
* Western Sydney Wanderers – Westfield Penrith – Thursday February 12th 4.30pm-5.30pm
* Melbourne Victory – Westfield Knox – Friday February 27th 4pm-5pm
Check back regularly as more clubs announce their appearances.
Check westfield.com.au for more detailed information.
