This forms stage two of the Munno Para Sportsground development, following an earlier stage that delivered a shared car park and drop-off zone with Mark Oliphant College, which was completed last year.
The regional level facility meets National Premier League Standards for Football SA and will include a FIFA-quality synthetic pitch, a natural turf oval, six universally designed changerooms, a flexible-use function room, a semi-commercial kitchen and bar, canteen servery, meeting room and additional storage space.
Leading Adelaide commercial builder Sarah Constructions has been awarded the construction contract following a rigorous Council tender process.
In part due to Elizabeth's early UK migrant population, soccer has long been an established sport in the area and has continued to grow in popularity over time.
Today, Adelaide United's official training base is located within the City of Playford Sports Precinct, while international star footballer Awer Mabil leads the way as an inspiring success story from Playford.
The City of Playford is driving this exciting new development set to inspire and nurture the next generation of stars, as well as meet a growing demand for high-quality community sporting facilities.
In 2024, Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club was selected as the anchor club for the Munno Para Sportsground as part of a competitive Expression of Interest (EOI) process.
The club has the highest female participation in the area and is one of northern Adelaide's longest-established soccer clubs, having been founded more than 60 years ago.
Elizabeth Grove's strong commitment to supporting women and girls aligns with the South Australian government's objectives through the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing - Power of Her program.
The total project budget is $20.165 million, with Council providing majority of the funding, supported by $750,000 from the Power of Her program.
Renewal SA is also a key partner in delivering the Playford Alive development and has contributed land for the delivery of the new sportsground.
Planned future stages for the sportsground aim to expand the site into a broader destination for open space and recreation, with plans for a second synthetic pitch, public open areas, playgrounds and public toilet.
This will directly serve the Playford Alive area as well as the wider Playford community with open spaces and opportunities to engage in a more active lifestyle.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said this project is an exciting investment for Playford, it provides a new home for Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club to grow and thrive, and a place for our community to play the sports they love.
"These modern sporting facilities assist and inspire the next generation of players to reach their full potential," Mayor Docherty said.
"As our community continues to grow, this dedicated space will provide opportunities for sport, recreation and connection, with soccer at its heart."
Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club President Justin Foster said the club is incredibly proud to be selected as the anchor club for this exciting regional facility.
"This development represents a defining moment for our club and a transformational opportunity for our players, families and the broader northern community," Mr Foster said.
"The new home at Munno Para will support the next phase of our growth, allowing us to expand participation, strengthen pathways, and provide modern, inclusive facilities for players of all ages and abilities.
This investment creates a genuine regional hub for football in northern Adelaide and ensures Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club can continue serving the Playford community for generations to come."
Minister for Recreation, Sport & Racing Rhiannon Pearce MP said achieving gender equality in sport requires action which is why the Malinauskas Government is backing clubs with the infrastructure, programs and equipment that allow girls and women to participate safely, confidently and on their own terms.
"Elizebeth Grove Soccer Club is a local leader in promoting women and girls' football and this exciting new facility will provide the infrastructure and resources they need to continue to attract and retain both junior and senior players," Ms Pearce said.
"Having a new facility like this not only means players and parents have the facilities they need to participate, but they also have place to come together as a community, build friendships and strengthen those bonds."
Member for Taylor and Minister for Housing and Urban Development Nick Champion MP said when we talk about building new communities in places like Playford Alive, we mean more than just houses.
"It means building facilities for new and existing residents to use and enjoy all the benefits that come with being actively involved in the community," Mr Champion said.
"The northern suburbs have always punched above their weight in harnessing South Australian soccer talent. This new soccer hub will be a fantastic asset for the people of Munno Para and surrounds and could be where the next generation of Matildas learn their craft."
Football SA CEO Michael Carter, Football SA said the City of Playford's support for aspiring clubs is outstanding.
"Elizabeth Grove's future at the new Munno Para facility will set the club up as a leader in years to come. The facility design is contemporary and practical and will be a leading purpose-built Football facility in the state," Mr Carter said.
"The venue will not only provide a home for the club but will offer a huge opportunity for students at Mark Oliphant College to participate in Football."
