An Introduction from the Chairman

Welcome to members of the South Coast community, wider football fraternity, sports fans, corporate and media partners.

The Football Federation of Australia (FFA) consideration of expansion of the Hyundai A-League has galvanised the football communities of the South Coast region of NSW to pursue a place for a team in the nation's elite competition.

The South Coast has a proud history in the World Game, laying claim to one of the most productive nurseries for football talent in Australia. Many past and present stars have called the South Coast home, representing the region locally, nationally and internationally. From the likes of Peter Wilson and Adrian Alston playing for Australia in the 1974 World Cup, to Scott Chipperfield, Mile Sterjovski and Luke Wilkshire in the record breaking 2006 World Cup.

Indeed, Scott Chipperfield lending his profile as an advocate of football on the South Coast shows the very spirit that we embody - those who have gone on to reach the pinnacle of their profession wanting to give back to the community. It is this sort of dedication that allows us to build for the future.

The South Coast is already playing a major part in the development of the stars of the future, with the likes of Ruben Zadkovich and Adam Federici chosen to represent the nation at the 2008 Olympics. Our local women footballers, such as Lisa Hartley, are also playing a part in the rise and rise of Women's Football in this country.

South Coast Football was formed as recognition to the pivotal role this region plays in football in Australia, and as a means to create a pathway for our local talent to realise their dreams and reach the very top - to have a team to aspire to one day be a part of.

The recent announcement by Tim Cahill to partner with us, through the development of the inaugural Tim Cahill Football Academy on the South Coast, further emphasis the high stead the region is held in. It also signifies the steps taken by South Coast Football to ensure the development of football from a grassroots level, as the number one participant sport in the area.

Since its inception in 2006, South Coast Football has been working hard behind the scenes, in its aim to bring World Class Football to the South Coast. In recognition of what it takes to build a successful brand and club in today's immensely competitive sporting industry, this group has become a reality through the dedication of a number of individuals, and associated groups. With close ties to the community, and vast experience and networks in their respective fields, this group is striving to build a sustainable and competitive team, built on the strategic pillars of community engagement, football excellence and business focus.

With work already having begun in unifying the numerous football associations on the South Coast, bringing together junior, men's, women's, professional, amateur and administrative associations under a single controlling body for the first time in over 30 years, we are well under way to achieving our goal - a unified voice, striving for a place in the Hyundai A-League.

Let me take this opportunity to thank you for taking the time to visit the South Coast Football website, and I urge you all to become a part of our team - your team - by showing your support for South Coast Football in whatever way you can. Have your voice heard by signing the supporters post, be a part of history by having your say on the team name, purchase a supporters pack, check out our sponsorship opportunities, get along to your local game and spread the word on South Coast Football - every little bit counts.

Let's get out there and strive to have a team to call our own... World Class Football - for the people of our region, by the people of our region!

Kind Regards,
Eddy De Gabriele