Manningham soccer clubs will soon have a new home-field advantage thanks to an $800,000 grant to redevelop Pettys Reserve into a state-of-the-art, purpose built soccer facility.

Minister for Sport John Eren visited Pettys Reserve in Templestowe earlier this month to announce the grant for the $9.7 million project.

Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said the grant was one of the biggest Manningham has ever received and will help meet the community’s recreational needs.  

“The redevelopment will help address the growing demands on our facilities and help give our clubs an edge above the rest,” he said.

“Soccer is an international sport and is now the number one team sport played by Aussie kids. 

“In Manningham, we have one of the highest soccer participation rates in Melbourne’s eastern region, with participation increasing by 11 per cent in the last two years and registrations of more than 1,700 players.”

Former Socceroo and Executive Manager Facilities and Advocacy of Football Federation Victoria, Gary Cole, congratulated Manningham and said it would be a great community hub for local clubs.

The new facility will feature two synthetic soccer fields with floodlighting, a new sports pavilion and extra car parking. 

It will be shared and enjoyed by Manningham’s 10 clubs and be accessible to all ages, gender and abilities.

Cr Conlon thanked Sport and Recreation Victoria for the generous contribution to the project and said the grant would benefit Manningham’s sporting communities for many years to come.