Media Release

Ballarat Community Soccer Competition Transitions to Football Victoria

12 November 2025

The Ballarat and District Soccer Association (BDSA), which has administered community soccer competitions since 1952 for seniors and 1972 for juniors, will transition the management of Soccer in the region to Football Victoria (FV) from January 2026.

A Legacy of Volunteer Leadership

For over seven decades, BDSA volunteers have been the backbone of grassroots soccer in the region, making significant contributions including:

• Advocating for and contributing funds to the development of the Ballarat Regional Soccer Facilities at Morshead Park
• Championing the growth of dedicated facilities for local clubs
• Managing player development pathways through representative programs

Recent Changes and the Path Forward

Following a 2024 club vote, FV's Grievance, Disciplinary, and Tribunal (GDT) process was implemented for the 2025 season. After FV presented a comprehensive transition plan during 2024/25, clubs voted in favour of full transition to FV administration from the 2026 season.

The transition has been progressing in phases. In 2025, FV assumed responsibility for the Country Championships—previously coordinated by volunteers—which sees representative teams from community clubs across Victorian districts compete for state honours. BDSA had historically managed the selection of coordinators, coaches, team managers, players, and equipment for these representative programs.

This change aligns Ballarat with other Victorian districts, including Geelong where FV has successfully managed community soccer for several years. Each district across Victoria is at different stages of implementing similar transition plans.

New Structure

Under the new arrangement, FV will employ staff to administer the competition in the Ballarat region, supported by an Advisory Committee providing local insight and guidance.

The BDSA will wind up operations over the next six months as FV assumes full administrative responsibility from January 2026.

A Strong Foundation

Soccer in Ballarat and District is thriving, with registered player numbers growing year on year. The 2025 season recorded the highest participation levels in the region's history.

The current BDSA board would like to thank all current and past members of the BDSA community for their contribution to soccer, and wish clubs success under the new structure.