Soccer club to celebrate half a century

MEMBERS of one the region’s largest soccer clubs will soon celebrate a different sort of goal accumulated both on and off the field.

Later this month, the Ballarat North United Soccer Club will mark 50 years of operation with an event at the Ballarat North Sports Club.

David Mullaney, who’s been involved with the club in various roles for about a decade, said the anniversary will be an opportunity to reminisce for many.

“Fifty years is a phenomenal thing and in any organisation it’s a great effort,” he said.

“For the club to go from very humble beginnings to where it is now is fantastic. There’s been a lot of selfless work and we’re marking it with this celebration.

“We’re aiming to get past players and people who’ve been involved back for the occasion because people drop off when they’ve stopped being involved and it’s important to celebrate together.”

With ex-Socceroo Archie Thompson as special guest, the event will include a three-course meal as well meet-and-greet opportunities.

Retro 1980s-inspired soccer jumpers will also be available on the night.

Formed in 1974 following the merging of two soccer clubs, Ballarat North United currently has close to 200 players.

Mr Mullaney said the club has only continued to develop since its establishment.

“Our junior situation’s always been really strong and we’re looking at a 25 per cent growth from 2023,” he said.

“There’s no doubt the Women’s World Cup has helped promote the game and get it to a bigger audience.

“Soccer’s a world game and kids are watching and playing. When I was playing my 20s, there wasn’t any women’s participation so that’s something that’s really growing too.”

The anniversary event will take place from 7pm on Saturday 20 July with tickets available at bit.ly/3xwTgDN.

General entry is $95 while a meet-and-greet and photo with Thompson will be $110.