In a ground-breaking deal, Melbourne Victory are set to sponsor a new Tasmanian state league and have an active say in football development on the Apple Isle.
In a ground-breaking deal, Melbourne Victory are set to sponsor a new Tasmanian state league and have an active say in football development on the Apple Isle.
After signing a three-year partnership with Football Federation Tasmania (FFT), the club will make a significant financial contribution to FFT-s new state-wide competition in return for naming rights - to be known as the "Victory League" - while also having a hands-on approach to the growth and development of football right across the state.
Victory will also embark on an annual pre-season tour in Tasmania, which will include games in the north and south of the state, while players and coaches will be made available for local football events as well as grass roots and community initiatives.
Two fixtures have already been confirmed, with Victory to take on a select Tasmanian XI in Hobart on August 21, followed by a pre-season match against Hyundai A-League rivals Adelaide United in Launceston on August 24.
FFT-s Elite Player Pathway will also become a feeder into Victory-s youth system.
FFT president Sean Collins said the deal was a significant boost to the game in Tasmania.
“In Melbourne Victory we have a major partner who can deliver huge benefits both on and off the field," Collins said.
“Having Victory in the state for a long stretch of time enables us to run clinics for junior footballers, visit schools, run sessions for up and coming coaches and to engage the whole football community.
Victory have also committed to playing their A-League community round fixtures in Launceston until at least the conclusion of the 2015 season, subject to FFA approval.