Head coach Alistair Edwards and assistant Gareth Naven are both set to journey down memory lane over the next fortnight as Perth Glory visit their respective junior clubs for two eagerly-anticipated pre-season friendlies.
Head coach Alistair Edwards and assistant Gareth Naven are both set to journey down memory lane over the next fortnight as Perth Glory visit their respective junior clubs for two eagerly-anticipated pre-season friendlies.
In a move that clearly illustrates the club’s ongoing commitment to engaging with the local WA community and grassroots football, Glory will take on Edwards’ former side Kwinana United on Saturday 6th July and a week later, tackle Gosnells City, the club where Naven played his junior football.
Kwinana President Luke Higgins is delighted at the prospect of Edwards, Naven and their A-League charges heading to Kelly Park and is anticipating a family-themed day to remember.
“It is fantastic to see Alistair bringing Perth Glory to Kwinana,” he said, “and returning to the club where his career all began.
“It’s sure to be a great day not only for Kwinana United, but also the local community.
“We hope to see a big crowd cheering on both teams and make this day a great success for all involved.
“Kick-off for the game is 2pm, with kids and family activities occurring from 11am. “There’ll be bouncy castles, face painting and small-sided games as well as giveaways and player signings throughout the day.”
Like Kwinana, Gosnells are thrilled to be welcoming Glory to their Walter Padbury Reserve home and club President Ron Costanzo is hoping that as many as 1000 supporters will attend.
“It’s a great community event that will bring the local community together for a big occasion,” he said.
“It’s quite a unique event and the focus is very much on the kids.
“We’ve got the bouncy castles, there’ll be an opportunity for the kids to spend time with the Glory players and get some autographs and basically have a really fun day.
“It’s a fantastic initiative by the Glory.
“They want to bring their club back to the community and this is a great example of them doing exactly that.
“I’d be delighted if we get all our members and their kids and parents down. “Hopefully we can get more than 1000 people there.”
Established in 1969, Gosnells boasts more than 400 junior and senior members, with their top senior side currently competing in the All Flags State League Division One. And the club regards Naven as one of its favourite sons.
“Gareth is a perfect example of a local boy turned good,” said Costanzo.
“It’s a great story and it’s great for him to be able to bring Glory back to his home club.
“It’ll be a special afternoon for him, I would imagine.
“He spent his junior years here and he’s never forgotten us, which is great.”
Pre-Season Friendlies Details:
Kwinana United v Perth Glory
Saturday 6th July 2013
Kick-off at 2pm (Family Activities from 11am)
Kelly Park, Thomas Oval, Medina
Admission: Free
Kids entertainment including Bouncy Castles, Player Signings, giveaways and plenty more.
Special Discounted Perth Glory Memberships and Merchandise available on the day.
Email info@kwinanaunited.com or call Luke Higgins on 0430 594851 for more information.
Gosnells City v Perth Glory
Saturday July 13th
Kick-off at 3pm
Cassidy Road Oval, Walter Padbury Reserve, Thornlie
Entry Fees:
Adults (18 years and over) – $10
Juniors (over 12) – $5
Kids (12 and under) – Free (if they wear their Gosnells or Glory tops!)
Special Limited Adult Packages of $50 and $100 which include admission, food and drink, VIP undercover area.
Kids entertainment including Bouncy Castles, Player Signings, giveaways and lots more.
Special Discounted Perth Glory Memberships and Merchandise available on the day.
Sponsors, be quick to get your special business banner displayed on the day.
Email info@gosnellscityfc.org.au or call Ron on 0408 097910 for more information.
Come early and watch Gosnells City Under-18s (Kick off 11am) and Reserves (kick off 1pm) against Wanneroo.
Gareth Morgan
