SUTHERLAND SHIRE FA

After navigating through COVID-19 during the previous two seasons, thoughts were clearly focused on an uninterrupted 2022. No one would have thought the weather would have had such a massive impact.

Families have been victims to major flooding and devastation in Shire communities with sport being furthest from their minds. For others, the contrary is true.

In a year where we have seen two metres of water fall on local fields, constant closures, limited training, the Sutherland Shire Football Association (SSFA) community still managed to play thirteen rounds and a finals series, testament to the resolve of Clubs working closely with the Association.

The cooperation and support from the twenty-six member Clubs has been outstanding over what has been an exceedingly difficult three years. Around the country, Sporting Clubs have folded and will unlikely return to provide sport in their communities. The SSFA registration fee reduction to $1 this season went a long way to maintaining strong registrations.

A huge thank you goes to Sutherland Council for allowing the extension of the football season into the summer allocation. Their support over not just this year but numerous years has been invaluable in achieving the games played. To the SSFA sponsors, the value may be difficult to assess but the Association is very appreciative of the continued support from Sutherland Council, Tradies, Deploy, D.Velop.R, Green Options, Katrina Wright, Rylex and Southpest.

The work of many to establish the inaugural Shire Premier League this year has been a true credit. Thanks to the working Group, SSFA EC members, Presidents, coaches, managers, and active participants that have set the standard. Whilst it was certainly not perfect, the communication and cooperation will truly assist in growing the competition over the coming years.

The SSFA CEO Jeff Stewart has once again done an outstanding job in managing the operations throughout the year. His guidance of all staff within his control has delivered the best product available in a difficult environment.

The SSFA has invested money into MyCompApp this year. Finally, a web-based competition draw management system that will provide greater flexibility going forward. This has taken 10 years to source a provider that can assist field management operations. Over time, SSFA continues to face challenges. Volunteering is in major decline, and this affects the ability for Clubs to manage their operations. The sport is only as strong as its members, and it is vitally important that families all chip in to assist their Clubs in delivering a wonderful experience for the Under 6s, right through to the Over 45s.

The Executive Committee have once again worked tirelessly during these difficult years. Their support has been tremendous, and they deserve an immense thank you for all their diligence over the year. Finally, to all players across the community, SSFA thanks you for your understanding in such a difficult year. It is hoped that COVID-19 goes, rain stops and the sun shines for 26 weeks from March 2023.