Balcatta Etna FC kicks off new era
A grand opening of the new facilities at Grindleford Reserve was held this month, coinciding with a twilight clash between Balcatta Etna and Perth Soccer Club — the first played under the new 200 lux floodlights.
As well as the lighting upgrade to the main field and training area, the club's amenities were refurbished as part of the project jointly funded by the City of Stirling and the State Government.
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The upgrades included renovations to the kitchen, improved access to toilet facilities, more storage, and enhancements to the roof structure above the spectator area.
Regarded as one of Perth's premier soccer clubs, Balcatta Etna FC is one of just four in WA to field both men's and women's teams in the National Premier Leagues.
The club develops players from juniors all the way to the elite levels.
President Peter Carlino said the upgrades had taken their home ground to the next level, not only for players but also for spectators.
'It's really about how it all comes together, particularly being able to play night games under lights,' Mr Carlino said.
'We now have the ability and the facilities to mix it with all the top teams.' (L-R) Balcatta MLA David Michael, City of Stirling Cr Teresa Olow, Balcatta Etna FC president Peter Carlino and City of Stirling Cr Lisa Thornton. Credit: Alex Verhagen
City of Stirling mayor Mark Irwin said the city was proud to contribute $1.2m towards the facility upgrades.
'Balcatta Etna FC is part of our soccer heritage in the City of Stirling and has gone from strength to strength since it was founded almost 50 years ago,' Mr Irwin said.
'It's fantastic to see a successful community club get the first-rate facilities it deserves, from the new lighting to the renovated clubrooms.'
The remaining $1.3m for the project came from the State Government, including $300,000 from the Women's World Cup legacy grants which supported improvements to female changerooms, player shelters and the grandstand.
Balcatta MLA David Michael said the upgrades had been a long time coming.
'Grindleford Reserve is a vibrant community hub for Balcatta and the surrounding areas, but it's been in need of upgrades for some time now with the original clubrooms built back in the 1990s,' he said.
'With more people getting out and joining clubs like Balcatta Etna Football Club, these upgrades are really important in helping to support growth in participation from juniors right up to our veterans.'
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