December 6, 2024
Channel 7 News report a new soccer league is set to make the sport a year-round activity in the South West region of Western Australia. The South West Academy League will provide more consistent high-level competition for talented young players, addressing concerns about lopsided games in the existing system.
The league's pilot program has already seen over 100 children from five clubs participate in trial games. Players interviewed for the news report expressed their enthusiasm about the opportunity to play against tougher opponents and more frequently than in previous seasons. One young player stated, "It's good to be playing soccer and stuff like that all year. You can verse different teams, and it's harder.” Another young player added, “I like playing against better opposition."
Coaches also voiced support for the league, highlighting the benefits for players who want to keep improving their skills and playing the sport they love. A coach stated that the kids who truly love football want to keep playing football and keep improving. The league will run under 11 and under 13 age groups, with teams nominated by each club. The inaugural season will officially begin in February. Nominations for the league will open in the coming weeks. The first official games will be played in February.
The initiative aims to create a more competitive and developmentally beneficial environment for the region's most talented young soccer players. The final games of the pilot program, including grand finals, are scheduled to take place next week in Bunbury at Hay Park.
