Football Queensland (FQ) has extended its state-wide reach to 7,000 students in recent months through the successful implementation of Sporting Schools programs delivered across the state. 

Following a strong show of interest from schools, 60 football programs were implemented in Term 1 of 2021, leading to a 12% increase in Sporting Schools participant numbers compared to Term 1 last year. 

Over 100 Sporting Schools football programs have also been approved for delivery in Term 2, while applications have today opened for Term 3 funding. 

“The response is really encouraging as it shows football is becoming more popular in schools for both boys and girls,” FQ’s Officer – Schools Participation Laura Bryant said.  

“Sporting Schools is Australia’s largest school-based sports participation program and FQ is proud to be the provider for football programs in Queensland with support from Football Australia. 

“With applications now open for Term 3 program funding, we’d encourage Queensland schools to apply to deliver a football program for their students.” 

The Sporting Schools program is designed to encourage participants to connect with community sporting organisations and improve physical activity for students. 

“It’s a great introductory program designed to help kids begin their football journeys in a safe and supportive environment,” Bryant said. 

“FQ’s participation team has worked closely with Football Australia to create a sustainable teacher-delivered program. 

“The coaches we have chosen from FQ have done an excellent job helping students who are interested in playing football and have been working hard to ensure the programs are fun, engaging and educational for young players.” 

“Sporting Schools has been a valuable opportunity for us to encourage children to be active across the state and drive ongoing participation in football, in line with our strategic commitment to engaging with schools throughout Queensland,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said.  

“Uniting football in Queensland means bringing all facets of the game together while delivering high-quality experiences for everyone involved, even with the challenges presented to us with the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Sporting Schools program has been a fantastic example of this in action.” 

Bryant said she hopes students across the state will be able to continue developing their skills with the support of quality resources and educational programs. 

“FQ wants as many Queensland primary schools as possible to have the opportunity to offer the best football programs for their students,” she said.  

“We are focused on providing students with a safe and supportive environment to grow in a sport they love.” 

Applications for Sporting Schools Term 3 funding are open until 8pm Friday, 4 June. 

Apply for Sporting Schools funding here. 

Words: Charlotte Monteath