The governing body of Tasmania’s most-played team sport is anticipating a spike in participation next season following the heroics of the Socceroos at the FIFA World Cup.
According to the Australian Government’s Ausplay statistics1, football is already Tasmania’s most played team sport, with an estimated 6.6% of the state’s population taking part in the World Game.
When it comes to young people, this popularity skyrockets, with 23.2% of Tasmanians aged between 5-18 participating in the sport.
Football Tasmania CEO Matt Bulkeley said he expected this figure would rise even further after the Socceroos captivated the nation with their thrilling progression out of the tournament’s group stage.
“The Socceroos have really grabbed the attention of the entire nation this World Cup with their heroic performances showing why football is the world’s, Australia’s and Tasmania’s most loved sport.
“It’s been even better viewing than normal for Tasmanians, with our state’s fans having the added bonus of being able to cheer on a local for the first time, with Nathaniel Atkinson part of the squad.
“The excitement of the World Cup is contagious, and with so many people following on, we’re expecting to see a massive spike in people of all ages pulling on the boots next season.”