Thursday, 5 March 2026

 Trung LUU (Western Metropolitan) (09:56): Last week I had an opportunity to visit the Western Suburbs Soccer Club in Sunshine West, a devoted local sporting club that has been a cornerstone of the community for decades. Built and sustained by volunteers, families and dedicated members, the Western Suburbs Soccer Club is a true grassroots club. This club serves as a gathering place for people of all backgrounds, where children learn resilience and teamwork. Sports play a crucial role in the community in connections. Currently the club fields 15 teams, both senior and junior, with between 220 and 250 players. Including the parents, coaches and volunteers, the club community is over 500 strong. The junior program continues to grow each year, reflecting the increasing popularity of soccer in our community.

We know how much it costs per kid to play these days. It is great to hear that the Western Suburbs Soccer Club is deeply embedded in community and committed to keeping registration fees as affordable as possible. They firmly believe that every child, regardless of circumstances, should have access to community clubs and sports. The commitment sets them apart from other clubs, especially considering they are situated in one of the most disadvantaged seats in the area. The club actively raises money and seeks sponsors to ensure that children from disadvantaged families can afford registration, uniforms and equipment to play. I acknowledge Charlie, John and Sam and the entire Western Suburbs Soccer Club for their efforts and commitment to promoting sports in the western suburbs.