By Brendan Rees
One of the biggest junior soccer tournaments could be coming to Casey as early as next year.
At their August 26 meeting, Casey councillors voted to consider hosting a Casey Cup 2019 with Casey Fields being their venue of choice.
The event has gained huge popularity since it has began in Shepparton 11 years ago through the support of the Australian Football Skool.
More than 1500 players competed in the 2016 Shepparton event over two action packed days involving 100 teams across all age groups from all over Victoria, interstate and overseas.
Cr Amanda Stapledon said teams would be able participate in a competitive and respectful manner, adding to a carnival atmosphere.
“The event has grown by 25 per cent each since 2014 (in Shepparton) and there are 220 teams that participate each year with 3000 players registered from ages six to 17 years of age – that’s boys, girls and all abilities,” she said.
Cr Stapledon said it was hoped the family event would feature more than 10000 people over the course of a weekend.
There would also be entertainment including a family fun zone, soccer expo, cinema under stars and food trucks.
It’s expected 100 teams will compete in the first year with 1500 players from clubs within the City of Casey, Dandenong, Cardinia, interstate, and internationally and draw a crowd of about 5000 spectators.
Cr Stapledon told councillors she was excited by the proposal which would also have little impost on council and have the potential to attract sponsorship and grants.
Council will meet as a matter of urgency with representatives of the Australian Football Skool and sporting groups to explore the possibility of holding the inaugural Casey Cup.
Cr Gary Rowe said he was incredibly excited Casey could host the cup and that the timing couldn’t be better.
“It’s appropriate that something like this comes along to Casey with the commitment that we’ve made to Team 11 and development of facilities down at Casey Fields,” he said.
A report will come back to council.
