A new regional-level sports facility in Munno Para is set to become home to one of Playford's most successful soccer clubs, providing a premier venue that will foster growth, attract new talent and enhance competition for both existing and future players.
Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club has been selected as the anchor club of the Munno Para Sportsground, following a competitive Expression of Interest (EOI) process. The club, known for its recent success including acceptance into Football SA's Men's State League 2, will move from its current location at Dauntsey Reserve in Elizabeth North to the new site within the Playford Alive development.
The state-of-the-art complex includes a FIFA-quality synthetic pitch, a natural pitch, six universally designed changerooms, a flexible-use function room, a semi-commercial kitchen and bar, canteen servery, office space, and additional storage space.
The site will be built in accordance with National Premier League Football SA standards to allow for higher-level participation and the hosting of significant competitions, while providing increased opportunities for grassroots participation.
Construction of the first soccer pitch and clubrooms is expected to begin in mid-2025, subject to funding, with completion anticipated in time for the 2027 soccer season. Future stages of the development include a third pitch, public open spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails.
The new facility aligns with Council's commitment to fostering community participation in sport, particularly as demand for soccer facilities continues to grow rapidly across in northern Adelaide's high-growth areas. There is particularly strong demand for female participation in soccer, with Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club demonstrating strong commitment to supporting female athletes across all levels of competition.
With 420 members, the club has the highest female participation in the area, with club numbers expected to reach 520 by 2026. The club is a stalwart of soccer in northern Adelaide, having been established over 60 years ago.
Its recent acceptance into Football SA Men's State League 2, highlights the exceptional competitive strength of the club, with its on-field success a demonstration of commitment to player development and growth recognised with the club being named Football SA Club of the Year in 2021.
The EOI process was led by an independent consultant as well as assessment by an independent panel, which included Football SA CEO, Michael Carter.
While soccer is the dominant sport for the site, planning includes opportunities for complementary sports and activities to ensure high levels of community use and participation all year round.
Renewal SA is a key partner in delivering the Playford Alive development and has contributed land for the delivery of the new sportsground.
Quotes - Mayor Glenn Docherty, City of Playford
With an increasing population in Playford who are interested in playing soccer, this facility will help grow the game and is a vital investment in our community.
With significant population and residential growth in Munno Para and the surrounding areas, the need for more open space is greater than ever. We're excited to deliver this facility in the heart of Playford Alive, right next to Mark Oliphant College.
Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club has a rich history and enables talented players in our community to achieve their full potential. This new facility will strengthen the opportunities for everyone to participate in soccer.
As well as providing a new home for Elizabeth Grove, the Munno Para Sportsground will be a vibrant space that will grow sporting activities in this part of Playford and meets the evolving needs of our expanding population.
Council's investment in infrastructure like this plays a critical role in fostering social connection and inclusion, cultural exchange and community pride - all of which contribute to the liveability of Playford.
Quotes - Scott Hockenhull, Secretary, Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club
Securing tenancy at the facility is a transformative step for Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club.
One of the most exciting aspects of this move is the access to modern, purpose-built change rooms that are suitable for women's and girls' participation-a significant growth area for our club over the past few years. This new space allows us to continue expanding all our teams, offering them the support and facilities they deserve as we build stronger pathways from junior levels to senior competitions.
The facility provides opportunities for us to partner with our neighbouring schools, including Mark Oliphant College, and to link up with local businesses and communities, like those operating out of the Stretton Centre, to foster greater collaboration and shared use of the space. These partnerships will enhance both our club's operations and the broader community's engagement with the facility.
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take on the tenancy. First and foremost, we would like to thank Mayor Docherty and the City of Playford Councillors for their unwavering support of our club leading up to this announcement. A special mention goes to Football SA CEO Michael Carter for his endorsement and advocacy, which helped secure this tenancy.
We are also deeply appreciative of the ongoing support from Federal Member for Spence Matt Burnell, Nick Champion (State Member for Taylor), and Lee Odenwalder (State Member for Elizabeth) for their endorsement of our application and their continued support of our club.
Quotes - Michael Carter, Football SA CEO
The City of Playford is a fantastic supporter of infrastructure which provides direct benefit to their community.
The Elizabeth Grove Soccer Club offer a complete participation opportunity for men, boys, women and girls. Demand for the code in the north will be supported by their relocation to the Munno Para Facility which will be purpose built for football.
I expect the club to go from strength to strength.
