Endeavor United’s Muhammed Kirmaci jumps for the ball during a State League Three soccer match. Local round ball fans may soon be greeted with a higher level of soccer through a A-League team being based in the city of Casey.
By Callan Date
THE City of Casey is making a strong play for an A-League soccer team to be based in the local area.
Casey chief executive Mike Tyler confirmed confidential discussions had been held with several parties in relation to establishing the second Victorian A-League franchise within the municipality.
The confirmation follows continued speculation about the expanding A-League competition and the location of the new teams.
Governing body Football Federation Australia (FFA) has indicated it wants a second team in Melbourne by 2010.
The City of Casey has been outspoken in its quest to establish a professional sporting club within its boundaries.
After losing out in its bid to have Australian Football League team St Kilda based at Casey Fields in Cranbourne, an A-League team is now on the agenda.
“Consistent with council’s desire to attract elite level sports clubs to the City of Casey, confidential discussions have taken place with a number of parties,” Mr Tyler said.
The south east region has been a strong breeding ground for professional soccer players over the years.
Current Socceroo and Celtic Football Club star Scott McDonald played for Cranbourne, while Australian team-mate Vince Grella was raised in Keysborough.
McDonald, who grew up in Berwick, this week expressed his desire for an A-League team to be based near his home town.
Premier sports facility Casey Fields would loom as a strong contender for the team’s home ground and headquarters.
FFA head of corporate affairs Bonita Mersiades said a minimum 12-team competition was a goal.
“We have not specifically considered a geographic area for a second Melbourne or Victorian team, but this does not preclude a proposal from one in the future,” Ms Mersiades.
Casey manager of city living Richard Amon said work was being done with Football Federation Victoria (FFV) and the shires of Cardinia and Yarra Ranges to develop a regional soccer strategy.
“This direction will consider issues relating to both the requirements of a regional soccer facility that represents the City of Casey in soccer competitions and FFV’s own vision for a presence in the south east of Melbourne,” Mr Amon said.
