Weston Bears president Rod Henderson believes the club's new $6.4 million football facility will be key to establishing a full female program. The upgraded home ground on Government Road was officially unveiled on Saturday, featuring a refurbished grandstand, new clubroom, canteen, office, members' space, team change rooms, referee facilities, and a gym.
The project was jointly funded by Cessnock City Council and the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program. Henderson expressed gratitude, saying the facility opens up opportunities for community football and other events. With four change rooms, the club can host both male and female matches on the same day.
While the Bears currently have a full male program, they are aiming to add premier girls and women's teams. Henderson noted that discussions with Northern NSW Football have begun, and a working group has been formed to develop female programs. Talks with council about a second stage, including a synthetic field and five-a-side pitches, are also underway.
On the pitch, the Bears' premier men's team lost 4-2 to Charlestown Azzurri. Goals from Matthew Cahill, Caleb Reed, and Pharrell Trainor gave Azzurri a 3-0 lead. Chris Hatfield pulled one back for Weston, but June Han restored the three-goal buffer before Brock Beveridge scored late for the hosts.
In other NPL action, Maitland came from 3-0 down to beat Belmont Swansea 4-3, and Broadmeadow defeated Lambton 5-2. Kane Woolston scored four goals as Cooks Hill thrashed Valentine 6-0, while Kahibah drew 2-2 with Edgeworth. The match between Newcastle Olympic and Adamstown was postponed due to rain.
