Optus Small-Sided Football Kicks Off in 2009 in WA
Small Sided Football kicked off 2009 with a bang, with children learning about the game while enjoying bouncy castles and face painters at two gala locations.
Football West-s Small Sided Football Gala Days were held at Kalamunda and Cockburn, with local clubs bringing down teams to compete in a round robin mini competition.
The gala days were a fantastic success, with a few hundred children attending each demonstration. Perth Glory Women-s players Katarina Jukic and Ella Mastrantonio attended a gala day each, to help the children with their skills.
The response from children and parents alike was positive on all counts. Ann Gourley, FFA Regional Participation Manager for WA, was pleased with how the gala days ran.
“It was great to see the children coming down to learn about the game, and they had a fantastic day with the bouncy castle and round robin games.”
“Small Sided Football is great for the kids, because the smaller teams mean more touches of the ball for them which make the game more enjoyable.”
Small Sided Football was introduced on a small scale in 2008 and following the positive response is being rolled out in clubs across Australia. The season starts at the beginning of May, with registrations currently open at clubs.
Football West will be running gala days again on Sunday April 5, at Subiaco and Kingsway, from 9am-1pm.
For more information about Small Sided Football, or to find a local club, visit the Football West website, www.footballwest.com.au.