EA Sports has announced a new initiative to support and grow girls football in Australia, in partnership with the charity Police Citizens Youth Clubs NSW (PCYC). The initiative, called FC FUTURES, is a 12-month grassroots program providing training camps, coaching clinics, and mentoring for young female players across Sydney and NSW.
The announcement was made alongside the launch of a new community football pitch in Sydney, created in partnership with EA SPORTS FC ambassador and Matildas legend, Sam Kerr. The pitch, which is located at PCYC Auburn, is inspired by Kerr’s style and achievements, and will also feature in the VOLTA FOOTBALL game mode in EA SPORTS FC 24 – the latest instalment of the popular football simulation game.
James Salmon, Senior Director of Brand at EA SPORTS FC, says “We believe FC FUTURES can provide unique tools to support the next generation of grassroots players. Sam Kerr is synonymous with inspiring the love of football, and we couldn’t be more excited to work with her to unveil this pitch and to continue providing greater access to sport for the community”. It is clear how the vision for EA SPORTS FC is to live at the intersection of football, technology and community.
Sam Kerr, who is widely regarded as one of the best female footballers in the world, said it was an honour to have a pitch created in her name and “To be part of this wonderful initiative to help grow football in Australia as well as providing young girls further opportunities.”
Simon Gerathy, GM Brand & Philanthropy at PCYC NSW, said “As a charity PCYC relies on the support of the community to help fund facilities, and life changing programs and activities that empower young people to realise their potential”. As such, the new football facility at PCYC Auburn will enable more young people in the heart of western Sydney to enjoy the global game, learn new skills, and socialise in a safe and more positive environment.
The FC FUTURES and PCYC girl’s grassroots partnership is part of the FC FUTURES initiative; a plan to meaningfully invest in community-level football on a global scale with the purpose of growing the game for all. The plan will see investments over three years across multiple grassroots football projects around the world.
EA SPORTS FC 24 is set to release on 29 September, 2023, with early access for Ultimate Edition buyers starting on 22 September, 2023. As an annual release, the game promises to deliver the most authentic and immersive football experience, with new features such as HyperMotion technology, Career Mode overhaul, and Create a Club option.
Owner, founder and editor-in-chief at Vamers, Hans has a vested interest in geek culture and the interactive entertainment industry. With a Masters degree in Communications and Ludology, he is well read and versed in matters relating to video games and communication media, among many other topics of interest.