- Perth Glory to continue as A-League team in Western Australia with new owner confirmed
- State Government pledged support through the A-League to keep a club in Perth last year
- Government invested heavily in infrastructure and grassroots football to keep promoting and growing the game
The State Government has today welcomed the news that the Perth Glory Football Club will continue as the A-League team in Western Australia, following confirmation the Pelligra Group has purchased the club.
It follows the State Government having pledged support for the Perth Glory last year to ensure the continuation of the organisation in Western Australia, while they sought to find a new owner.
The Government will now work with the new owners to action the package of support that was offered to the A-League.
Significant investments in football infrastructure have also been made by Government in recent years to continue growing and supporting the game.
The new State Football Centre, now known as the Sam Kerr Football Centre, was jointly funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments and opened last year ahead of the FIFA Women's World Cup.
The world-class facility spanning 16 hectares was built to support the game at professional and grassroots levels, and was used by women's teams as part of their training during the World Cup, as well as the CommBank Matildas during their Olympic qualifier matches.
A further $6.1 million was also announced recently by the State Government to expand the Centre and allow for two additional pitches and lighting, further bolstering the state-of-the-art facility.
HBF Park has also undergone significant improvements, including $44 million of upgrades last year, which provided:
- a brand new reinforced pitch;
- upgraded changeroom facilities;
- two new display screens, LED sports lighting and significant electrical, CCTV and Wi-Fi upgrades;
- improved accessibility amenities;
- additional permanent amenities and event space; and
- a relocated outside broadcast area.
Comments attributed to Treasurer Rita Saffioti:
"Without our Government's support, there was a risk we could have permanently lost Perth Glory to Western Australia.
"The Glory is part of our community, having been a stalwart of football in our State for nearly 30 years.
"We wanted to ensure the club could continue in Western Australia, particularly to help facilitate pathways for young Western Australian footballers.
"We're committed to growing and promoting the game here in WA, and by investing in key infrastructure and helping to confirm the future of Perth Glory we're creating a pathway for talented players to reach their full potential and compete at the highest level.
"Importantly, the Pelligra Group have experience managing football and other sporting teams, so we welcome their ownership of this proud club."
Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman:
"This is really great news for the Perth Glory and football in Western Australia.
"Having a new owner confirmed will no doubt provide welcome certainty for players, staff and of course their fans for the remainder of the season and into the future.
"We've seen how much football has grown in popularity, particularly over the past 12 months, so we're very keen to continue supporting and growing the world game."
