By David Gold
March 28 – Football Federation Australia (FFA) chiefs have pledged to continue supporting the W-League – insisting they see “blue sky not storm clouds”, as speculation mounts over its future.
The women’s league, sponsored by Westfield, consists of seven teams and one match per week is screened live on ABC1.
“FFA remains firmly committed to an elite pathway for women’s football in Australia and this includes the Westfield W-League,” declared Lyall Gorman (pictured), head of the Hyundai A-League, who pointed to the deals with ABC and Westfield as evidence that the league can thrive.
“We are proud to run one of the few women’s leagues in the world that has a free-to-air broadcast partner and a blue-chip naming rights partner.
“Work on next season is well underway and the fundamental blocks are in place to build the already impressive brand profile of the Westfield W-League.”
FFA, which receives significant funds from the Government towards development of the women’s game, contributes AU$1 million each year ($1.05 million/£657,000/€780,000) to helping fund the league; its seven clubs make up the balance of the costs.
This season’s league has just concluded, and two teams – Perth Glory and Newcastle Jets – have indicated they will review their commitment to fielding women’s teams.
The clubs have questioned the financial sustainability of the league – but FFA has removed any doubt about its level of commitment.
“On March 29 we have a planning day scheduled where some of the smartest minds in Australian football and business will discuss the strategy for women’s football,” Gorman explained.
“This is an exciting project because the potential is almost unlimited for women’s football in Australia.
“The negative commentary in recent days is in stark contrast to our plans for the future of the women’s game.
“We see blue sky – not storm clouds.”
Gorman continued: “Anyone who understands Australian football will know the growth rates in women’s participation is one of our great success stories.
“FFA makes significant investment each year to the development of women’s football, including funding for travel, match officials, special purpose grants to each club, and the associated costs involved with the management and administration of the league.
“This investment will continue because it’s strategically important for the ongoing growth of the game.”
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