Sarah Witty (Melbourne, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I recently joined players, families and volunteers at Princes Park in North Carlton for the FC Birrarung end-of-season presentation. FC Birrarung is a true community club. More than 550 players, most of them children, pull on their boots each week with pride and excitement. I saw that joy as they cheered for their teammates, accepted their medals and ran back to their friends, clutching trophies almost as big as they were. I spoke with the president, Marie-Liesse Labat, whose pride in the club was unmistakable. She spoke about the sense of belonging the club has built. It's a place where every young person feels supported, included and part of something bigger than themselves.

It was also special to celebrate coach and mentor Julie Ryan, who has given 10 years of her time, patience and heart to the club. Her dedication shows what grassroots sports is all about: shaping not only better players but better community.

Earlier this year, FC Birrarung received $4,560 from the Albanese Labor government Volunteer Grants program, helping them with new gear, training and small essentials that keep a club strong. Sport teaches more than skills; it teaches community. FC Birrarung is proof of what happens when people come together and build something worth cheering for.

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