Football in the Pilbara is set for take-off after Football West appointed its first Development Officer for the region.
Carol Hegan will be based in her home town of Karratha as she looks to grow the sport across the board.
“This is a really exciting time to be coming in to this role as the city is growing and a lot more people are coming into the region,” she said.
“There is such a wide scope to develop football here.
“We don’t have women’s competition. In parts of the region we have issues with youth where Street Football would appeal. Elsewhere we can get the Aboriginal community more involved in the game. It really is a blank canvas.”
Carol’s background is in health and fitness, management and disability support. She recently founded a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering families through movement, education and connection.
“I have a good network in the town, and this is a good opportunity to introduce myself to people and build positive partnerships.
“And it’s not just Karratha. We have Roebourne, Tom Price, Newman, Hedland … towns with their own identities.”
Football West Community Football Manager Sarah Du Plessis said Carol’s appointment further underlined the organisation’s commitment to the regions.
“We now have Regional Development Officers in the Kimberley, the Pilbara, Goldfields, Great Southern, South West and the Midwest,” she said.
“Carol’s local knowledge and expertise working within the community is fantastic.
“Football West is proud to be able to provide a Development Officer for the Pilbara.
“We look forward to further rolling out the Aboriginal soccer program, which provides strong health messaging and role models for the communities, thanks to the grant received from the Department of Health.
“I would also like to thank the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries for their support and funding in this area.
“Having a Development Officer in the region will further support and service key areas of the game for players, coaches, referees and the wider football community.”
Football West would like to recognise the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries for its funding and support, and mining giant Gold Fields, our Official Regional Partner.
Filed Under: Community News