South-West and Goldfields to host WAFL games in 2003

6/12/02
Sport and Recreation Minister Alan Carpenter announced today the West Australian Football League would play matches in Busselton and Kalgoorlie next year.
East Perth and Swan Districts would play in Busselton on March 22, 2003 and Subiaco would take on Swan Districts in Kalgoorlie-Boulder on July 5, 2003.
Mr Carpenter said the State Government was providing support for the matches through the Country Sport Enrichment Scheme.
"The benefits of the Country Sport Enrichment Scheme, which is administered by the Department of Sport and Recreation, extend way beyond giving regional Western Australians the opportunity to see elite sport," he said.
"All teams will conduct coaching clinics with local teams, coaches and community members.
"The WAFL will work with the local football associations and shires in both regions to create coaching and development opportunities.
"As well, all gate and catering proceeds will go to the promotion of junior football in the regions where the games are being played."
Mr Carpenter said each team would take up to 35 members, which would include players, coaches, support staff and managers. A team of umpires would be part of the touring party.
"In previous years, football followers in regional WA have shown their appreciation for these visits with large attendances and I am sure the communities of Busselton and Kalgoorlie-Boulder will turn out in large numbers to see some of our State's best football players," the Minister said.
He said WA was the only State that had a funding program like the Country Sport Enrichment Scheme.
"Through this unique program, the Government has supported events such as the Salomon Masters surfing event in Margaret River and the Wildcats playing the championship basketball games in Bunbury," Mr Carpenter said.
Minister's office - 9213 6800