Dai Le (Fowler, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

King Tom's Club, founded in 1965 by Croatian migrants, sits right in the heart of my Fowler electorate. For decades it has been more than just a sporting ground; it has been a home for culture, for community and for Sydney United 58 FC. On the weekend I attended their season opener against UNSW FC with club president Mark Ivancic. Standing on the sidelines surrounded by club legends, former Socceroos and lifelong supporters, I was reminded that this club was not just about football; it was about identity, it was about belonging, and it was about giving young people a place to grow.

Sydney United has produced more than 60 Socceroos, including Mark Bosnich, Tony Popovic, Graham Arnold, Mile Jedinak, Robbie Slater and Tim Cahill. That legacy does not happen by accident. It comes from dedicated volunteers, parents who drive their kids to training in the rain and coaches who give their time week after week. On the day more than 40 ex-players were welcomed back, as well as coaches and board members, some of whom represented both club and country as far back as the late 1960s and 1970s. It was not just a reunion. It was a powerful reminder that strong clubs are built across generations. Grassroots sport, when supported properly, builds leaders. It strengthens communities, and, in places like Fowler, it gives young people direction, discipline and hope. I also want to thank the young UBF podcast team, Thomas and Abdul. (Time expired)

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