THE construction of female friendly changerooms at Bell Park Sports Club has been completed, delivering a significant boost to women’s and girls’ soccer in the region.<\/p>\n
The new change facilities were officially opened last Saturday 4 May by councillors from the City of Greater Geelong, Lara MP Ella George and Bell Park Sports Club president Rose Pirrottina.<\/p>\n
The $1.95 million upgrade, which also includes change facilities for officials, a first aid room and storage spaces, replaces the club’s previous changerooms which were no longer fit for purpose.<\/p>\n
For the Batesford-based club, the opening of the new changerooms marks a milestone years in the making.<\/p>\n
“We not only celebrate physical infrastructure, but also a profound commitment to inclusivity, diversity and respect,” the club said on Facebook.<\/p>\n
“These change rooms are more than just bricks and mortar; they symbolise our dedication to providing a welcoming and [equitable] environment for all members of our community.”<\/p>\n
Funding for the upgrade was provided by the city and the state government.<\/p>\n
Mayor Trent Sullivan said the council was pleased to have supported the project.<\/p>\n
“Soccer participation amongst women and girls is booming following the Matildas’ amazing run at last year’s World Cup,” he said.<\/p>\n
“It’s important we encourage this growth by providing our local clubs with the best possible facilities.”<\/p>\n
Lara MP Ella George said the new change rooms were a “game changer for local football”, with women and girls able to “say goodbye” to the days of “changing in the back of the car”.<\/p>\n
“The Allan Labor government is leading the way when it comes to women in sport, ensuring that more women and girls have access to high quality facilities across Geelong’s north.<\/p>\n
“With women’s football more popular than ever, we’re ensuring local clubs like Bell Park Sports Club have the facilities they need to support the Matildas of the future.”<\/p>\n
Deputy mayor Anthony Aitken wished the sports club “many years of enjoyment and success”.<\/p>\n
“The saying goes that good things come to those who wait, and that could not be truer for the Bell Park Sports Club,” he said.<\/p>\n
“The club has waited a long time for these female friendly upgrades and is now set up for a very bright future.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE construction of female friendly changerooms at Bell Park Sports Club has been completed, delivering a significant boost to women’s and girls’ soccer in the region. The new change facilities were officially opened last Saturday 4 May by councillors from the City of Greater Geelong, Lara MP Ella George and Bell Park Sports Club president […]<\/p>\n