By Nick Creely
The Narre Warren Football Netball Club hosted its VIP day at Fox Road on Saturday, with politicians, sponsors, volunteers and local junior club members recognised for their support throughout the season.
A large crowd gathered in the new social rooms at Kalora Park to celebrate the success of the club to date this season, and update members on how the teams are tracking as they enter finals, and to make some important announcements.
Prior to the senior game against Officer – in which the Magpies eventually won 87 points – senior coach Matt Shinners addressed the crowd, talking about the growth of the club on-field this season, with the club sitting on top of the seniors, second in the reserves and second in the under 19s.
Shinners praised the club for how it’s handled not having lights at the ground all season, with the club having to train at junior clubs and various grounds throughout the season.
Playing her 200th A Grade netball match that day, Magpies captain Erin Clark delivered an emotional address about what the club meant to her and everyone involved in the community, talking about her younger days at Kalora Park and how it has made her a better person and allowed her to meet lifelong friends.
State Liberal leader Matthew Guy and Narre Warren North Liberal candidate Vikki Fitzgerald then announced a $660,000 pledge if elected towards Stage 2 of the redevelopment of the club, which would consist of asphalting the perimeter of the car park and the completion and fitout of the first floor meeting and committee rooms.
“Vikki Fitzgerald has been doing extensive work with the local community to secure this upgrade for Narre Warren Football and Netball Club and has advocated strongly for this funding,” Mr Guy said.
Fitzgerald said it was integral to get these upgrades for the club.
“Sporting clubs are the hub of any community,” she said.
“By providing Narre Warren Football and Netball Club the funding they deserve, all teams participating in the local league can benefit from using these upgrades, as they will provide a safe playing and working environment for players and club officials.”
