Tasmanian A-League bid: Difference between revisions
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| founded = 2008 |
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| sport = [[Soccer in Tasmania|Soccer]] |
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| ground = [[Bellerive Oval]], [[York Park]], [[North Hobart Oval]] |
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| league = [[A-League Men]]<br>[[A-League Women]] |
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| chairman = John McGirr |
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| proposed = 2005 |
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| status = Ongoing |
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[[Expansion of the A-League|A-League expansion]] in [[Tasmania]] has been proposed since the establishment of the [[A-League]] in 2005. Before the introduction of the league, [[Football Federation Australia]] (FFA) chairman [[Frank Lowy]] said he hoped to expand the competition into cities such as [[Hobart]] and [[Launceston, Tasmania|Launceston]], among others.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.a-league.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=601 | title=ASA announce several significant initiatives | publisher=[[Football Federation Australia]]|date=22 March 2004 | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060909222618/http://a-league.com.au/default.aspx?s=newsdisplay&id=601 | archivedate=9 September 2006}}</ref> |
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[[Football Tasmania]] president Bob Gordon stated in 2021 that he was confident a club would likely be entering the competition as soon as 2023.<ref>[https://www.ftbl.com.au/news/tasmanian-a-league-team-might-be-two-years-away-567614 TASMANIAN A-LEAGUE TEAM 'MIGHT BE TWO YEARS' AWAY] from FTBL Jul 20 2021</ref> However in 2023 the proposal was pushed back to the 2025-2026 season, on the condition that either the [[Macquarie Point Stadium]] is made convertible or a new rectangular stadium is built.<ref>[https://www.news.com.au/sport/football/aleague-still-keen-on-tasmanian-presence-but-rectangular-venue-is-must/news-story/20322a328e96f8e19a9dadcbe65931db A-League still keen on Tasmanian presence but rectangular venue is must] by Marco Monteverde for News.com.au 16 April 2023</ref> |
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The bid has the backing of the Tasmanian government.<ref>[https://www.premier.tas.gov.au/site_resources_2015/additional_releases/tassies_own_a-league_team_next_logical_step_for_claiming_our_spot_on_national_stage Tassie’s own A-League team next logical step for claiming our spot on national stage] Peter Gutwein, Premier 20 January 2021</ref> |
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==Tasmania United bid== |
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The '''Tasmanian A-League Bid''', under the working name of '''Tasmania United FC''', is a proposed [[Tasmania]]-based [[A-League]] [[association football]] (soccer) club. In late 2010 a business plan was developed investigating the feasibility of such a proposal, however at the media release of the bid, where '''Tasmania United FC''' officials were absent, the State Government and Football Federation Tasmania made it clear that any such bid would be run by the State Government and not by any third party. The State Government then concluded that they had no interest in supporting such a proposal and would prefer to invest in youth development and encouraging state visits of other A-league clubs. '''Tasmania United FC''' officials have stated that they will press on without assistance from the State Government and Football Federation Tasmania, no further comment to the media has been made.<ref name=autogenerated1>[http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/tufc-media-release-jun11/ Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
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==History== |
===History=== |
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⚫ | Following the success of the A-League, a Tasmanian football task force headed by Hobart-based businessman John McGirr was given the task of finding funding for a Tasmanian-based A-League side.<ref>[http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/03/19/2193662.htm?section=sport Tasmanian national soccer team push – ABC Grandstand Sport – ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref name=News1 /> The taskforce has registered the name "Tasmania United FC" and is submitting a bid for the 2011–12 season.<ref>http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,24080405-13222,00.html {{Dead link|date=February 2022}}</ref> In September 2008 McGirr Announced the adoption of an official club logo for the proposed club and announced that the taskforce was on target "to present an extremely strong business case to both FFA and the Tasmanian community and intend to be ready to put a formal proposal for an A-League licence by mid-2009".<ref>[http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/83973,tassie-push-for-aleague-boost.aspx Tassie Push For A-League Boost – Australia News – Australian FourFourTwo – The Ultimate Football Website<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Tasmanian Football Taskforce official [[Ken Morton]] has stated that should Tasmania United FC be awarded an A-League licence then the competition would become "a far more 'national' competition than rivals [[Australian Football League|AFL]] and [[National Rugby League|NRL]], which are based in [[Melbourne]] and [[Sydney]] respectively. Indeed, the AFL has consistently refused Tasmania's push to have its own team, with economic factors being brought into play. We have a good [[cricket]] team down there who compete well at national level and we believe we can do the same in the A-League."<ref>[http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,24571266-23215,00.html?from=public_rss Tassie would make A-League national | A-League | Fox Sports<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In February 2008, [[Ken Morton]] stated "we meet the criteria but we require an owner."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au">{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/q-ken-morton/ |title=Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2010-03-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706112420/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/q-ken-morton/ |archive-date=2011-07-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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===Tasmanian Football Taskforce=== |
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⚫ | Following the success of the A-League, a Tasmanian football task force headed by |
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In October 2007, Football Federation Tasmania CEO Martin Shaw suggested that Tasmania would be a viable location for an A-League club, mentioning the fact that it would need support from state and local government. It has been suggested that such a team would play games in both Hobart and Launceston.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,22553407-5000940,00.html|title=Why not Tasmania?|publisher=[[Fox Sports (Australia)]]|date=9 October 2007|accessdate=12 October 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/65860,tasmania-wants-aleague-bid.aspx|title=Tasmania wants A-League bid|publisher=[[FourFourTwo (Australia)]]|date=27 November 2007|accessdate=12 October 2009|archive-date=5 September 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080905071209/http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/65860,tasmania-wants-aleague-bid.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2008, a Tasmanian football taskforce was formed to investigate an A-League bid.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/03/19/2193662.htm?section=sport|title=Tasmanian national football team push|publisher=[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation|ABC]]|date=19 March 2008|accessdate=12 October 2009}}</ref><ref name=News1>{{cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,23626990-13222,00.html |title=Tassie A-League hope |date=1 May 2008 |accessdate=12 October 2009 |newspaper=[[The Mercury (Hobart)|The Mercury]] |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080504060814/http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,23626990-13222,00.html |archivedate=4 May 2008 }}</ref> The taskforce registered the name "Tasmania United FC" and submitted a bid for the join the 2011–12 A-League season.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,24080405-13222,00.html|title=Public to choose Tassie's A-League logo|date=26 July 2008|newspaper=[[The Mercury (Hobart)|The Mercury]]|accessdate=12 October 2009}} {{Dead link|date=August 2010|bot=RjwilmsiBot}}</ref> Despite multiple failed attempts to join the A-League, Tasmania United remains active in promoting a Tasmanian-based A-League club. |
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===Proposal=== |
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⚫ | In October 2007, [[Football Federation Tasmania]] CEO Martin Shaw suggested that Tasmania would be a viable location for an A-League club.<ref>[http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,22553407-5000940,00.html Why not Tasmania? | A-League | Fox Sports<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> It was further suggested, in something of a contradiction, that a Tasmanian team would require Tasmanian Government support.<ref> |
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⚫ | In October 2007, [[Football Federation Tasmania]] CEO Martin Shaw suggested that Tasmania would be a viable location for an A-League club.<ref>[http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,22553407-5000940,00.html Why not Tasmania? | A-League | Fox Sports<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> It was further suggested, in something of a contradiction, that a Tasmanian team would require Tasmanian Government support.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/65860,tasmania-wants-aleague-bid.aspx |title=Tasmania Wants A-League Bid – Australia News – Australian FourFourTwo – The Ultimate Football Website<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=5 November 2008 |archive-date=5 September 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080905071209/http://au.fourfourtwo.com/news/65860,tasmania-wants-aleague-bid.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref> On 16 March 2009, the Tasmanian Football Taskforce Chairman John McGirr clarified this statement by pointing out that "Obviously as a task force we would welcome any sort of funding from whoever,"<ref name="themercury.com.au">[http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2009/03/17/61655_todays-news.html Sheik in Tassie team bid Today's News – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> John McGirr then added "from day one we have seen this as a private business enterprise and we are not looking for any Government funds to prop the bid up".<ref name="themercury.com.au"/> |
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===Public launch=== |
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⚫ | The Tasmanian task force, which has the backing of the state government, has scheduled the launch of Tasmania United FC for |
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⚫ | The Tasmanian task force, which has the backing of the state government, has scheduled the launch of Tasmania United FC for 25 November, and that a deal with a major sponsor is close at hand.<ref name="ReferenceB">[http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2008/10/30/35485_sport.html Licence edge to Tassie Sport – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> [[Ken Morton]] states that "we had good news regarding the major investor and once that is finalised in the next few days I think you will see our bid progress very aggressively."<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |
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===Early planning=== |
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⚫ | On |
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⚫ | On |
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⚫ | On 12 February 2009, the task force announced it was "still in the mix" and "working harder than ever of late to entice investors and sponsors, as well as being in regular contact with the FFA".<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/tassie-united-still-mix/ |title=Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2009-02-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706112408/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/tassie-united-still-mix/ |archive-date=2011-07-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Taskforce was unable to complete a formal proposal in time for the early expansion, although the Taskforce continued operating with the intention of obtaining a future A-league licence. [[Ken Morton]] has since stated that he believes Tasmania United FC's chance of entering the A-League to be "100%. I believe the A-League want us, the Tasmanian community want us and for this reason I believe it will become reality."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> |
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===2009 Club feasibility study=== |
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⚫ | On 16 March 2009, Chairman John McGirr stated that the task force was in negotiation with a Dubai businessman regarding sponsorship and ownership of Tasmania United FC.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25196677-2722,00.html |title=Dubai sheik backs Tasmania in A-League | the Australian |website=www.theaustralian.news.com.au |access-date=6 June 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120913152248/http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25196677-2722,00.html |archive-date=13 September 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The businessman has since been named as Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al Amoudi—the 77th richest man in the world with a net worth of $13.7 billion.<ref>[http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2009/03/17/61655_sport-news.html Sheik in Tassie team bid Sport – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> As of December 2010, it is unknown if Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al Amoudi has any involvement with the consortium. |
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⚫ | On |
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⚫ | On 22 April 2009 the Tasmanian Government launched a six-week feasibility study to determine the possibility of a Tasmanian A-League side being viable.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/feasibility-study-confirmed/ |title=Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2010-03-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091024114723/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/feasibility-study-confirmed/ |archive-date=2009-10-24 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Stratcorp Consulting and Sporting Management Concepts, the same business to successfully manage the Melbourne Heart A-League licence bid have been engaged to manage the study utilising their experience in this field.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> |
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⚫ | The Report was aimed at exciting key Ministers and Government staff about the opportunities to establish the team and provide sufficient need and justification to enable Government commitment.<ref> |
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⚫ | The outcome was a final Report that considered the key issues and questions that decision makers and potential funding partners may have in relation to the need for the proposed A-League team.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/TUFC/ |title=Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2011-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706112440/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/TUFC/ |archive-date=2011-07-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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⚫ | The Report was aimed at exciting key Ministers and Government staff about the opportunities to establish the team and provide sufficient need and justification to enable Government commitment.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/survey-report-released/ |title=Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2011-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706112435/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/survey-report-released/ |archive-date=2011-07-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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This feasibility study succeeded in obtaining State Government and FFA support and shortly after its review the State Government agreed to provide funding towards the preparation of a Business Plan. |
This feasibility study succeeded in obtaining State Government and FFA support and shortly after its review the State Government agreed to provide funding towards the preparation of a Business Plan. |
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⚫ | With the positive feedback obtained from the completed feasibility study, the taskforce obtained funding from the Tasmanian State Government to cover those costs associated with the preparation of a business plan that could be made available to both investors and the FFA.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/state-government-dig-deep/ |title=Tasmania United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2011-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110706112431/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/state-government-dig-deep/ |archive-date=2011-07-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The business plan was completed successfully in late December 2010, with the consortium stating that it would be making a presentation to both the FFA and key investors in early to mid-2011 with the express intention of winning the now vacant 11th A-league licence for the 2012–2013 Season along with gaining crucial private investment. There is unknown if Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al Amoudi—the 77th richest man in the world, may be one of these potential investors. |
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===2010 Club business plan=== |
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⚫ | Early in 2011 the results of the business plan were released to the public by Tasmania United FC and these demonstrated that Tasmania could hold an A-league licence.<ref>http://www.arts.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/38845/Sc1423_Final_Report_v4_-_Public_Release.pdf{{Dead link|date=May 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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⚫ | With the positive feedback obtained from the completed feasibility study, the taskforce obtained funding from the Tasmanian State Government to cover those costs associated with the preparation of a business plan that could be made available to both investors and the FFA.<ref> |
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⚫ | Shortly after the business plan was released to the public the current state government made a media release alongside representatives of Football Federation Tasmania, who had no involvement with Tasmania United FC or a Tasmanian bid until that point, and with no members of the Tasmania United FC board present.<ref>[http://www.walterpless.com.au/2011/april/minister-for-sports-media-release-on-tasmanian-a-league-team-business-case.html Minister for Sport's media release on Tasmanian A-League team business case | April<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> At the media release the State Government stated that they would not be pursuing any bid and that if they were to do so in the future then they would utilise a business model where Football Federation Tasmania controlled all aspects of the bid and club.<ref>[http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2011/04/23/224781_soccer.html Tassie A-League dream Soccer – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> A short time afterwards the board of Tasmania United FC who had laid the foundation stated that they would continue to press for a future Tasmanian A-League licence that worked with the State Government and Football Federation Tasmania, though as a wholly independent body.<ref>{{cite web|title=TUFC Media Release|url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/tufc-media-release-jun11/|publisher=tasmaniaunited.com.au|accessdate=9 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924113258/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/news/post/tufc-media-release-jun11/|archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> |
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===2011 Tasmanian bid schism=== |
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⚫ | Shortly after the business plan was released to the public the current state government made a media release alongside representatives of Football Federation Tasmania, who had no involvement with Tasmania United FC or a Tasmanian bid until that point, and with no members of the Tasmania United FC board present.<ref>[http://www.walterpless.com.au/2011/april/minister-for-sports-media-release-on-tasmanian-a-league-team-business-case.html Minister for Sport's media release on Tasmanian A-League team business case | April<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> At the media release the State Government stated that they would not be pursuing any bid and that if they were to do so in the future then they would utilise a business model where Football Federation Tasmania controlled all aspects of the bid and club.<ref>[http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2011/04/23/224781_soccer.html Tassie A-League dream Soccer |
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===Club culture=== |
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⚫ | It has been decided that Tasmania United FC will be a club with a nickname that represents all Tasmanians. Many oppose using the name 'Tigers' as the state cricket team already has this nickname. For similar reasons the name 'Tassie Devils' may also be excluded as the former Tasmanian VFL side used this name and there is the expectation that it will be the name of a future Tasmanian-based AFL side. |
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⚫ | Despite a growing national interest |
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⚫ | The Taskforce has obtained supporter opinion of the names Wolves, Apples, Lions, Convicts, Pirates and Islanders and several others through the use of website polling. Another suggestion was The Wanderers due to the famous overland walking track, however this title is now taken. No firm decisions have been made although Wolves remains a highly popular choice making use of the thylacines name 'native marsupial wolf', although that name in football is already associated with the [[Wollongong Wolves]], another team who may eventually enter the A-League.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/forum/topic/view/187/ |title=Forum<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2011-07-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111005190125/http://www.tasmaniaunited.com.au/forum/topic/view/187/ |archive-date=2011-10-05 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |
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⚫ | Despite a growing national interest supporters of a Tasmanian A-League club are still divided over the location of home games with both the north and south ends of the state supporting home games being played in their own region. The two supporter groups are focused on either Hobart or Launceston. Both cities contain sporting venues; [[Bellerive Oval]] in [[Hobart]] and [[York Park|Aurora Stadium]] in [[Launceston, Tasmania|Launceston]], but both are oval designs and would be far from ideal. In spite of these concerns the Tasmanian A-league Taskforce have in consultation with the FFA implemented a policy directed towards delivering one A-League Club for all Tasmanians playing home games in both the north and south of the state. This has resulted in considerable frustration for some football fans in both the north and south of the state who believe that football should be solely located in their region only. |
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Given that the future establishment of a 20/20 League in Australia may prevent the use of Bellerive stadium for A-League matches, other facilities have been suggested including the redevelopment of King George V Oval, North Hobart Oval, Wentworth Park or Rugby Park, along with the possible complete development of an entirely new sporting precinct somewhere in the Greater Hobart region. These possibilities are all reliant upon potential investment from third parties. |
Given that the future establishment of a 20/20 League in Australia may prevent the use of Bellerive stadium for A-League matches, other facilities have been suggested including the redevelopment of King George V Oval, North Hobart Oval, Wentworth Park or Rugby Park, along with the possible complete development of an entirely new sporting precinct somewhere in the Greater Hobart region. These possibilities are all reliant upon potential investment from third parties. |
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Many potential supporters of A-League in Tasmania have encouraged the redevelopment of North Hobart Oval as Tasmania's premier association rules and rugby field in Tasmania. |
Many potential supporters of A-League in Tasmania have encouraged the redevelopment of North Hobart Oval as Tasmania's premier association rules and rugby field in Tasmania. |
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Other grounds that may be suitable for friendly matches include both the Devonport Oval and West Park in Burnie, as a Tasmanian A-league side will no doubt want a presence on the North West Coast of the state, if only in friendly matches. |
Other grounds that may be suitable for friendly matches include both the Devonport Oval and West Park in Burnie, as a Tasmanian A-league side will no doubt want a presence on the North West Coast of the state, if only in friendly matches. |
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==Squad== |
===Squad=== |
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During the bidding process, although there were no plans to sign players until the granting of an A-League licence, [[Ken Morton]] stated that he already had in mind "2 Dutch Under 21 stars who I think would do very well and they would be great acquisitions for the A-League. Both played in Under 21 European Championships for Holland."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> However, with a delay to submission of the bid these acquisitions did not eventuate. |
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While no firm decisions have been made Ken states that he is establishing scouting networks "through existing scouts in Brazil, the UK and Asia." and intends to look at recruiting both locally and from "Asia, Africa and Europe."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> When asked if he would be prepared to apply for the senior coach position once an A-League licence was granted, [[Ken Morton]] stated "Yes, without a doubt."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> |
While no firm decisions have been made Ken states that he is establishing scouting networks "through existing scouts in Brazil, the UK and Asia." and intends to look at recruiting both locally and from "Asia, Africa and Europe."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> When asked if he would be prepared to apply for the senior coach position once an A-League licence was granted, [[Ken Morton]] stated "Yes, without a doubt."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> |
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===National Youth League squad=== |
===National Youth League squad=== |
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Following the successful friendly matches played between a Tasmanian Youth Side and National Youth League squads Ken Morton has stated that "given a chance our youngsters can compete at this level"<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> and that "the passion shown by these boys was tremendous."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> |
Following the successful friendly matches played between a Tasmanian Youth Side and National Youth League squads Ken Morton has stated that "given a chance our youngsters can compete at this level"<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> and that "the passion shown by these boys was tremendous."<ref name="tasmaniaunited.com.au"/> |
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Tasmanian sides have also performed in previous National Championships |
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==Club culture== |
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⚫ | It has been decided that Tasmania United FC will be a club with a nickname that represents all Tasmanians. Many oppose using the name 'Tigers' as the state cricket team already has this nickname. For similar reasons the name 'Tassie Devils' may also be excluded as the former Tasmanian VFL side used this name and there is the expectation that it will be the name of a future Tasmanian-based AFL side. |
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⚫ | The Taskforce has obtained supporter opinion of the names Wolves, Apples, Lions, Convicts, Pirates and Islanders and several others through the use of website polling. Another suggestion was The Wanderers due to the famous overland walking track, however this title is now taken. No firm decisions have been made although Wolves remains a highly popular choice making use of the thylacines name 'native marsupial wolf'.<ref> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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{{Portal|Australia}} |
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*[[Expansion of the A-League]] |
*[[Expansion of the A-League]] |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090131092456/http://tasmaniaunited.com.au/ Official Tasmania United website] |
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{{Tasmanian Sports Teams}} |
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{{Soccer in Tasmania}} |
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[[Category:Expansion of the A-League Men]] |
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[[Category:Soccer clubs in Tasmania]] |
[[Category:Soccer clubs in Tasmania]] |
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[[Category:Expansion of the A-League]] |
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[[Category:Association football clubs established in 2008]] |
[[Category:Association football clubs established in 2008]] |
Latest revision as of 00:09, 11 August 2023
Proposed name | Tasmania United FC |
---|---|
Status | Ongoing |
Standort | |
Region | Tasmania |
Sport information | |
Sport | Soccer |
League | A-League Men A-League Women |
History | |
First proposed | 2005 |
A-League expansion in Tasmania has been proposed since the establishment of the A-League in 2005. Before the introduction of the league, Football Federation Australia (FFA) chairman Frank Lowy said he hoped to expand the competition into cities such as Hobart and Launceston, among others.[1]
Football Tasmania president Bob Gordon stated in 2021 that he was confident a club would likely be entering the competition as soon as 2023.[2] However in 2023 the proposal was pushed back to the 2025-2026 season, on the condition that either the Macquarie Point Stadium is made convertible or a new rectangular stadium is built.[3]
The bid has the backing of the Tasmanian government.[4]
Tasmania United bid
[edit]History
[edit]Following the success of the A-League, a Tasmanian football task force headed by Hobart-based businessman John McGirr was given the task of finding funding for a Tasmanian-based A-League side.[5][6] The taskforce has registered the name "Tasmania United FC" and is submitting a bid for the 2011–12 season.[7] In September 2008 McGirr Announced the adoption of an official club logo for the proposed club and announced that the taskforce was on target "to present an extremely strong business case to both FFA and the Tasmanian community and intend to be ready to put a formal proposal for an A-League licence by mid-2009".[8] Tasmanian Football Taskforce official Ken Morton has stated that should Tasmania United FC be awarded an A-League licence then the competition would become "a far more 'national' competition than rivals AFL and NRL, which are based in Melbourne and Sydney respectively. Indeed, the AFL has consistently refused Tasmania's push to have its own team, with economic factors being brought into play. We have a good cricket team down there who compete well at national level and we believe we can do the same in the A-League."[9] In February 2008, Ken Morton stated "we meet the criteria but we require an owner."[10]
In October 2007, Football Federation Tasmania CEO Martin Shaw suggested that Tasmania would be a viable location for an A-League club, mentioning the fact that it would need support from state and local government. It has been suggested that such a team would play games in both Hobart and Launceston.[11][12] In 2008, a Tasmanian football taskforce was formed to investigate an A-League bid.[13][6] The taskforce registered the name "Tasmania United FC" and submitted a bid for the join the 2011–12 A-League season.[14] Despite multiple failed attempts to join the A-League, Tasmania United remains active in promoting a Tasmanian-based A-League club.
In October 2007, Football Federation Tasmania CEO Martin Shaw suggested that Tasmania would be a viable location for an A-League club.[15] It was further suggested, in something of a contradiction, that a Tasmanian team would require Tasmanian Government support.[16] On 16 March 2009, the Tasmanian Football Taskforce Chairman John McGirr clarified this statement by pointing out that "Obviously as a task force we would welcome any sort of funding from whoever,"[17] John McGirr then added "from day one we have seen this as a private business enterprise and we are not looking for any Government funds to prop the bid up".[17]
The Tasmanian task force, which has the backing of the state government, has scheduled the launch of Tasmania United FC for 25 November, and that a deal with a major sponsor is close at hand.[18] Ken Morton states that "we had good news regarding the major investor and once that is finalised in the next few days I think you will see our bid progress very aggressively."[18]
On 12 February 2009, the task force announced it was "still in the mix" and "working harder than ever of late to entice investors and sponsors, as well as being in regular contact with the FFA".[19] The Taskforce was unable to complete a formal proposal in time for the early expansion, although the Taskforce continued operating with the intention of obtaining a future A-league licence. Ken Morton has since stated that he believes Tasmania United FC's chance of entering the A-League to be "100%. I believe the A-League want us, the Tasmanian community want us and for this reason I believe it will become reality."[10] On 16 March 2009, Chairman John McGirr stated that the task force was in negotiation with a Dubai businessman regarding sponsorship and ownership of Tasmania United FC.[20] The businessman has since been named as Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al Amoudi—the 77th richest man in the world with a net worth of $13.7 billion.[21] As of December 2010, it is unknown if Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al Amoudi has any involvement with the consortium.
On 22 April 2009 the Tasmanian Government launched a six-week feasibility study to determine the possibility of a Tasmanian A-League side being viable.[22] Stratcorp Consulting and Sporting Management Concepts, the same business to successfully manage the Melbourne Heart A-League licence bid have been engaged to manage the study utilising their experience in this field.[22] The outcome was a final Report that considered the key issues and questions that decision makers and potential funding partners may have in relation to the need for the proposed A-League team.[23] The Report was aimed at exciting key Ministers and Government staff about the opportunities to establish the team and provide sufficient need and justification to enable Government commitment.[24] This feasibility study succeeded in obtaining State Government and FFA support and shortly after its review the State Government agreed to provide funding towards the preparation of a Business Plan.
With the positive feedback obtained from the completed feasibility study, the taskforce obtained funding from the Tasmanian State Government to cover those costs associated with the preparation of a business plan that could be made available to both investors and the FFA.[25] The business plan was completed successfully in late December 2010, with the consortium stating that it would be making a presentation to both the FFA and key investors in early to mid-2011 with the express intention of winning the now vacant 11th A-league licence for the 2012–2013 Season along with gaining crucial private investment. There is unknown if Sheik Mohammed Hussein Ali Al Amoudi—the 77th richest man in the world, may be one of these potential investors. Early in 2011 the results of the business plan were released to the public by Tasmania United FC and these demonstrated that Tasmania could hold an A-league licence.[26]
Shortly after the business plan was released to the public the current state government made a media release alongside representatives of Football Federation Tasmania, who had no involvement with Tasmania United FC or a Tasmanian bid until that point, and with no members of the Tasmania United FC board present.[27] At the media release the State Government stated that they would not be pursuing any bid and that if they were to do so in the future then they would utilise a business model where Football Federation Tasmania controlled all aspects of the bid and club.[28] A short time afterwards the board of Tasmania United FC who had laid the foundation stated that they would continue to press for a future Tasmanian A-League licence that worked with the State Government and Football Federation Tasmania, though as a wholly independent body.[29]
Club culture
[edit]It has been decided that Tasmania United FC will be a club with a nickname that represents all Tasmanians. Many oppose using the name 'Tigers' as the state cricket team already has this nickname. For similar reasons the name 'Tassie Devils' may also be excluded as the former Tasmanian VFL side used this name and there is the expectation that it will be the name of a future Tasmanian-based AFL side.
The Taskforce has obtained supporter opinion of the names Wolves, Apples, Lions, Convicts, Pirates and Islanders and several others through the use of website polling. Another suggestion was The Wanderers due to the famous overland walking track, however this title is now taken. No firm decisions have been made although Wolves remains a highly popular choice making use of the thylacines name 'native marsupial wolf', although that name in football is already associated with the Wollongong Wolves, another team who may eventually enter the A-League.[30]
Potential home ground
[edit]Despite a growing national interest supporters of a Tasmanian A-League club are still divided over the location of home games with both the north and south ends of the state supporting home games being played in their own region. The two supporter groups are focused on either Hobart or Launceston. Both cities contain sporting venues; Bellerive Oval in Hobart and Aurora Stadium in Launceston, but both are oval designs and would be far from ideal. In spite of these concerns the Tasmanian A-league Taskforce have in consultation with the FFA implemented a policy directed towards delivering one A-League Club for all Tasmanians playing home games in both the north and south of the state. This has resulted in considerable frustration for some football fans in both the north and south of the state who believe that football should be solely located in their region only.
Given that the future establishment of a 20/20 League in Australia may prevent the use of Bellerive stadium for A-League matches, other facilities have been suggested including the redevelopment of King George V Oval, North Hobart Oval, Wentworth Park or Rugby Park, along with the possible complete development of an entirely new sporting precinct somewhere in the Greater Hobart region. These possibilities are all reliant upon potential investment from third parties. Many potential supporters of A-League in Tasmania have encouraged the redevelopment of North Hobart Oval as Tasmania's premier association rules and rugby field in Tasmania.
Other grounds that may be suitable for friendly matches include both the Devonport Oval and West Park in Burnie, as a Tasmanian A-league side will no doubt want a presence on the North West Coast of the state, if only in friendly matches.
Squad
[edit]During the bidding process, although there were no plans to sign players until the granting of an A-League licence, Ken Morton stated that he already had in mind "2 Dutch Under 21 stars who I think would do very well and they would be great acquisitions for the A-League. Both played in Under 21 European Championships for Holland."[10] However, with a delay to submission of the bid these acquisitions did not eventuate. While no firm decisions have been made Ken states that he is establishing scouting networks "through existing scouts in Brazil, the UK and Asia." and intends to look at recruiting both locally and from "Asia, Africa and Europe."[10] When asked if he would be prepared to apply for the senior coach position once an A-League licence was granted, Ken Morton stated "Yes, without a doubt."[10]
National Youth League squad
[edit]Following the successful friendly matches played between a Tasmanian Youth Side and National Youth League squads Ken Morton has stated that "given a chance our youngsters can compete at this level"[10] and that "the passion shown by these boys was tremendous."[10] Tasmanian sides have also performed in previous National Championships
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "ASA announce several significant initiatives". Football Federation Australia. 22 March 2004. Archived from the original on 9 September 2006.
- ^ TASMANIAN A-LEAGUE TEAM 'MIGHT BE TWO YEARS' AWAY from FTBL Jul 20 2021
- ^ A-League still keen on Tasmanian presence but rectangular venue is must by Marco Monteverde for News.com.au 16 April 2023
- ^ Tassie’s own A-League team next logical step for claiming our spot on national stage Peter Gutwein, Premier 20 January 2021
- ^ Tasmanian national soccer team push – ABC Grandstand Sport – ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
- ^ a b "Tassie A-League hope". The Mercury. 1 May 2008. Archived from the original on 4 May 2008. Retrieved 12 October 2009.
- ^ http://www.news.com.au/mercury/story/0,22884,24080405-13222,00.html [dead link]
- ^ Tassie Push For A-League Boost – Australia News – Australian FourFourTwo – The Ultimate Football Website
- ^ Tassie would make A-League national | A-League | Fox Sports
- ^ a b c d e f g "Tasmania United". Archived from the original on 6 July 2011. Retrieved 29 March 2010.
- ^ "Why not Tasmania?". Fox Sports (Australia). 9 October 2007. Retrieved 12 October 2009.
- ^ "Tasmania wants A-League bid". FourFourTwo (Australia). 27 November 2007. Archived from the original on 5 September 2008. Retrieved 12 October 2009.
- ^ "Tasmanian national football team push". ABC. 19 March 2008. Retrieved 12 October 2009.
- ^ "Public to choose Tassie's A-League logo". The Mercury. 26 July 2008. Retrieved 12 October 2009. [dead link]
- ^ Why not Tasmania? | A-League | Fox Sports
- ^ "Tasmania Wants A-League Bid – Australia News – Australian FourFourTwo – The Ultimate Football Website". Archived from the original on 5 September 2008. Retrieved 5 November 2008.
- ^ a b Sheik in Tassie team bid Today's News – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania
- ^ a b Licence edge to Tassie Sport – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania
- ^ "Tasmania United". Archived from the original on 6 July 2011. Retrieved 15 February 2009.
- ^ "Dubai sheik backs Tasmania in A-League | the Australian". www.theaustralian.news.com.au. Archived from the original on 13 September 2012. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
- ^ Sheik in Tassie team bid Sport – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania
- ^ a b "Tasmania United". Archived from the original on 24 October 2009. Retrieved 29 March 2010.
- ^ "Tasmania United". Archived from the original on 6 July 2011. Retrieved 7 January 2011.
- ^ "Tasmania United". Archived from the original on 6 July 2011. Retrieved 7 January 2011.
- ^ "Tasmania United". Archived from the original on 6 July 2011. Retrieved 7 January 2011.
- ^ http://www.arts.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/38845/Sc1423_Final_Report_v4_-_Public_Release.pdf[permanent dead link]
- ^ Minister for Sport's media release on Tasmanian A-League team business case | April
- ^ Tassie A-League dream Soccer – The Mercury – The Voice of Tasmania
- ^ "TUFC Media Release". tasmaniaunited.com.au. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ "Forum". Archived from the original on 5 October 2011. Retrieved 27 July 2011.