A League still looks to grow

The increasing push for the A-League to expand in the Dandenong and Casey regions continues to gain traction after a stellar turnout for the NPL2 match between local teams Thunder and City on 3 February.
With a number of regions, including Geelong, Tasmania and areas of Queensland, aiming to be the next cab off the rank in the A-League expansion project, the 3000 plus supporters that came out in droves to George Andrews Reserve in Dandenong were undoubtedly passionate about a sport they believe should have a professional team in the area.
Many of the top-ranking sports administrators, including Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti, were in attendance in a show of support.
And there are investors who are willing to help out.
Casey council recently forecast a $20m training facility to be built at Casey Fields while Dandenong Council is considering building a boutique stadium at the Dandenong Showgrounds, although government funding still needs to be approved.
It has been common knowledge for several months now that the seven major soccer clubs in the south-east region are behind the push and in November Casey Mayor Sam Aziz revealed to the Journal that planning is well and truly underway.
“It would be a fantastic addition to the region,” he said.
“This is a regional matter, so we are working very closely with our colleagues from Greater Dandenong.
“We are looking at a number of facilities and we believe we firmly have the infrastructure and we would welcome it.”