Boots thud against the ball, excited parents cheer from the sidelines and ever-watchful referees blow their whistles to ensure a fair game for all.
These have been the familiar sounds and sights of local soccer clubs for generations and here on the Sunshine Coast Eddie Muller, 42, has been part of the scene for three decades.
After joining a squad at 12-years-old, the proud local now serves as the Vice-President of the Bli Bli United Football Club and President of the Sunshine Coast Churches Soccer Association.
He’s played, coached and been a committee member for his beloved Bli Bli team and says it’s the team spirit, atmosphere and close connections that keep him coming back year after year.
Sunshine Coast Council is a proud supporter of clubs like Bli Bli United and groups, organisations and initiatives that improve the health and wellbeing of our community.
“In team sport, you’re playing for someone else,” Eddie said.
“People are relying on you and vice-versa and I think that’s the best way to be in life as well, you need support around you.”
Matilda’s superstar Kyra Cooney-Cross played for the club as a child and Eddie said the incredible success of her Australian women’s national team had no doubt increased interest in the game.
The Bli Bli club already has 30 extra registrations for the 2024 season and an all-girls under sevens team called the Bli Bli Queens.
Inspired to give back by those who volunteered before him, Eddie said seeing kids being active, making friends and participating in team sport was rewarding.
“I’m part of a committee who wants to see the club thrive for years to come and it’s the enthusiasm of other volunteers which makes volunteering so enjoyable.”
The Bli Bli United Football Club was a successful recipient of Sunshine Coast Council’s Sports Field Maintenance Funding Program and Eddie said the support was invaluable.
“It’s been an important one for our volunteer-run club,” he said.
“The money helps us maintain our fields – everything from mowing to fertiliser, irrigation and line marking.
“The money we would have needed to save and fundraise (to fund field maintenance) would have eaten into the kitty of the club.
“We can instead use those funds to purchase equipment and keep our fees down for families.”
Eddie and his fellow volunteers can spend more than six hours a week ensuring the fields are in tip top condition and also receive support from Council to understand how best to care for the grounds.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said Council was proud to contribute to the ongoing success of community sport.
“Community sport is important not just for our physical and emotional wellbeing, but it creates strong bonds within our society,” Cr Suarez said.
“Eddie and other volunteers like him inspire us with their tireless dedication and I’d like to congratulate him for his efforts over many years.
“No doubt many lives are improved, and more opportunities created for future generations thanks to the devotion of our Sunshine Coast volunteers.”
The Sports Field Maintenance Funding Program offers up to three years of funding to not-for-profit organisations that have responsibility for the maintenance of community sports fields.
This year the Bli Bli United Football Club celebrates 40 years in the Churches Association, which is celebrating its 50th year. Players and volunteers of all ages are always welcome. To get involved visit the Bli Bli United Football Club Facebook page or visit the Sunshine Coast Churches Soccer Association website.
