A New Era for Soccer in Munno Para: Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club’s Move to a State-of-the-Art Facility
A new regional-level sports facility is set to transform the landscape of soccer in Munno Para, becoming the new home for one of Playford’s most successful soccer clubs, the Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club. This exciting development promises to provide a premier venue that will not only foster growth and attract new talent but also enhance competition for both existing and future players.
Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club: A Legacy of Success
The Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club has been a cornerstone of the local soccer community for over 60 years. Known for its commitment to player development and community engagement, the club has recently achieved significant milestones, including its acceptance into Football SA’s Men’s State League 2. This recognition underscores the club’s competitive strength and dedication to nurturing talent at all levels.
With a current membership of 420, the club boasts the highest female participation in the area, a testament to its commitment to inclusivity and support for female athletes. The club anticipates its membership will grow to 520 by 2026, reflecting the increasing interest in soccer within the community.
The Munno Para Sportsground: A Premier Venue
Following a rigorous Expression of Interest (EOI) process, Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club has been selected as the anchor club for the new Munno Para Sportsground. This state-of-the-art complex will feature a FIFA-quality synthetic pitch, a natural pitch, and six universally designed changerooms, ensuring that players of all backgrounds and abilities can participate comfortably.
In addition to the playing fields, the facility will include a flexible-use function room, a semi-commercial kitchen and bar, a canteen servery, office space, and additional storage. These amenities will not only enhance the experience for players and spectators but also provide opportunities for community events and gatherings.
Meeting High Standards for Soccer Development
The Munno Para Sportsground is being designed to meet the National Premier League Football SA standards, allowing for higher-level participation and the hosting of significant competitions. This commitment to quality will provide increased opportunities for grassroots participation, ensuring that soccer continues to thrive in northern Adelaide’s rapidly growing areas.
Construction of the first soccer pitch and clubrooms is expected to begin in mid-2025, with completion anticipated in time for the 2027 soccer season. Future stages of the development will include a third pitch, public open spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails, further enhancing the community’s recreational offerings.
A Commitment to Community and Inclusivity
The new facility aligns with the City of Playford’s commitment to fostering community participation in sports. As the demand for soccer facilities continues to grow, particularly among female athletes, the Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting this need. The club’s strong focus on supporting female participation across all levels of competition is a key aspect of its mission.
Mayor Glenn Docherty of the City of Playford emphasized the importance of this facility, stating, "With an increasing population in Playford who are interested in playing soccer, this facility will help grow the game and is a vital investment in our community." The facility’s location within the Playford Alive development, adjacent to Mark Oliphant College, further underscores its accessibility and potential for community engagement.
Building Partnerships for Greater Impact
The Munno Para Sportsground will not only serve as a new home for the Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club but also as a vibrant space for sporting activities in the region. The planning includes opportunities for complementary sports and activities, ensuring high levels of community use and participation throughout the year.
Scott Hockenhull, Secretary of the Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club, expressed excitement about the transformative potential of the new facility. "One of the most exciting aspects of this move is the access to modern, purpose-built change rooms that are suitable for women’s and girls’ participation," he noted. This focus on inclusivity will enable the club to expand its teams and provide the necessary support for athletes at all levels.
The facility also opens doors for partnerships with local schools, such as Mark Oliphant College, and businesses in the area, fostering collaboration and shared use of the space. These partnerships will enhance the club’s operations and strengthen community ties.
Support from Local Leaders
The successful acquisition of the tenancy at the Munno Para Sportsground has been made possible through the unwavering support of local leaders. Hockenhull expressed gratitude to Mayor Docherty, City of Playford Councillors, and Football SA CEO Michael Carter for their advocacy and endorsement of the club’s application. The ongoing support from Federal and State Members of Parliament has also been instrumental in this achievement.
Michael Carter highlighted the significance of the new facility, stating, "The City of Playford is a fantastic supporter of infrastructure which provides direct benefit to their community." He emphasized the importance of providing complete participation opportunities for all, noting that the relocation of Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club to the Munno Para facility will support the growing demand for soccer in the northern region.
As the Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club prepares for this exciting new chapter, the Munno Para Sportsground stands as a beacon of opportunity, growth, and community engagement, promising to elevate the sport of soccer in Playford for years to come.