More than 1600 players from under-5s to under-17s will pull on their boots this weekend, as the Northern Tasmanian Junior Soccer Association (NTJSA) kicks off its 2023 season in Launceston today (Saturday, 22 April 2023).
Teams from seven clubs – George Town, Launceston City, Launceston United, North Launceston Eagles, Northern Rangers, Riverside Olympic and Southern Raiders – will return to Churchill Park.
NTJSA President Linette Venn said: “It’s always a great sight to see junior soccer back at Churchill Park. Grassroots soccer starts here, and we are very pleased that participation numbers are again strong this year.
“Off the back of the men’s World Cup last year and the upcoming Women’s World Cup this July, soccer continues to grow in popularity. We want our participation numbers to continue to grow and its important that we have the infrastructure to support this growth.
“We welcome the recent investment in Churchill Park and are looking forward to future solutions for ongoing issues such as drainage and additional amenities.”
Football Tasmania CEO Matt Bulkeley said: “We’re so excited to see hundreds of junior players in the North return to the field this weekend, and to begin or continue their football journey, wherever it takes them.
“We’re quite sure there’s future Socceroos and Matildas out on the field today, and we know they’ll be inspired by the FIFA Women’s World Cup which comes to Australia and New Zealand in July and August.
“It’s great to see our juniors so excited about the game, and we’re thrilled to see them back out on the park today.”
Pictured above: NTJSA President Linette Venn and Football Tasmania Board member Rachel Williams with players Ryan, George, Ruby, Frank, Zef, Isabella and Eleanor representing each of the seven clubs in the NTJSA.
Pictured: Percy, Matilda and Eleanor Shaw talk to Nightly News 7 Tasmania about the start of the season.