Victoria University Polytechnic is pleased to be named an inaugural premier partner of Western United Football Club, Hyundai A-League's newest football team, and a club the west can call its own.
"This is a perfect partnership match," said Deputy Vice Chancellor Grant Dreher.
Both partners share a passion and commitment to Melbourne's west and to the greater western region of Victoria by supporting and contributing to the prosperity and vibrancy of one of the fastest growing regions in Australia.
Mr Dreher said he was delighted to be associated with the ambitions of a club that was able to bring to the region for the first time its own Hyundai A-League club.
Western United debuted in the 2019/20 season of the Hyundia A-League earlier this month, making history and bringing pride to thousands of first-time fans by defeating Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand in their first ever match.
"We are proud to be involved from the beginning of Western United's remarkable story. We're confident our partnership will continue to evolve and provide benefits and opportunities for the west, our staff, students, and the wider VU community for many years to come," said Mr Dreher.
Western United CEO Chris Pehlivanis said the club was delighted to partner with VUP.
"Both organisations aspire to shape a brighter future for our region and its people, and together this partnership reflects our shared goals for the community in Melbourne's West and the greater western region of Victoria," he said.
Victoria University Polytechnic offers many TAFE sport courses for sport-focused students, including diplomas and certificates in sport and recreation, sport development, fitness, and remedial massage.
Western United is dedicated to growing the world game in the region, including in the regional towns of Geelong and Ballarat. And plans for a world-class stadium in Tarneit will provide widespread infrastructure, economic, and community benefits to Wyndham and beyond.
VU Polytechnic is developing a stronger presence in Wyndham too. Part of its Werribee Campus in Hoppers Lane is being transformed into a technology and education precinct with leading industry partners focused on delivering a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce for major infrastructure projects in Melbourne's West.
Nearby, the Wyndham Tech School, a high-tech school for the region's secondary school students, is supported by Victoria University and focuses on health, transport and logistics, scientific, and construction education.
Western United will play its first home game against reigning Premiers, Perth Glory, at GMHBA Stadium in Geelong on 19 October.
