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<\/p>\nThousands of young footballers across the Northern Inland will benefit from a renewed partnership between Newcastle Permanent and Northern NSW Football, with 11,500 free footballs to be distributed ahead of the grassroots season.<\/p>\n
The long-running partnership, now in its 19th year, continues to support community football across northern NSW, helping ensure young players can take part in the game from an early age. Since 2008, almost 150,000 footballs have been provided to entry-level players aged four to seven across the region\u2019s seven member zones.<\/p>\n
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Northern NSW Football recorded strong participation in 2025, with 114,232 registered players. Growth has also been evident in the Northern Inland, particularly among girls, who now make up almost one-third of participants aged four to 11.<\/p>\n
Early signs point to continued growth in 2026, reflecting strong community engagement with the sport.<\/p>\n
Newcastle Permanent Tamworth branch manager Julie Callander said the partnership was focused on supporting local families and communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cSince 2008, Newcastle Permanent has proudly supported Northern NSW Football\u2019s delivery of community football to thousands of players across the region,\u201d Callander said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs part of our commitment to investing in local communities, we\u2019re not only providing the free footballs but also extending exclusive Newcastle Permanent offers to the wider northern NSW football community throughout the season.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are excited to help local families to lead healthy, happy and active lives, and see more achievements on the pitch in 2026.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Northern NSW Football chief executive Peter Haynes said the partnership played an important role in keeping the game accessible and inclusive.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am thrilled that Newcastle Permanent will continue as our major partner of community football,\u201d Haynes said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis partnership has been ongoing for almost two decades now. In that time Newcastle Permanent\u2019s support has helped us and our member zones successfully deliver community football across our region, ensured football remains accessible and that young players start the season with a ball at their feet.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe look forward to another exciting year of football across northern NSW that is safe, fun and affordable for all participants. We wish every player, coach, match official and volunteer all the very best for the 2026 season ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n