On Wednesday night, the nation sat on the edge of their seats in anticipation of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-final, and it was no different here in Wagga Wagga.
In response to strong interest from residents, Council organised an event to enable the community to come together in a family-friendly environment to cheer on the Matildas as one.
Council opened the doors of Bolton Park Stadium, encouraging supporters to bring snacks, chairs, and blankets to get cosy as they watched the Matildas take on England’s Lionesses for a spot in the Women’s World Cup final.
More than 160 passionate fans showed up to support the game, and the team spirit was not only shown in the sea of green and gold, but also heard through the excited cheering of the crowds as they grouped around several large screens set up inside the stadium.
Despite conceding to England, the Matildas truly won gold for Australia by uniting communities across the country.
Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Dallas Tout was pleased Council was able to provide this support at short notice.
“It’s just great to have the community together,” Cr Tout said. “People can stay in their own houses but having everyone watch and support together in one location is a great vibe that we want to encourage.
“I think it’s important to celebrate sport itself, in this case football or soccer, whichever, no matter what club you’re in but it’s also about projecting role models for young children.
“These are the sort of games and the sorts of experiences the young ones will remember and think well, ‘actually, I can do that. I can go and join the local soccer or football club. I could be a Matilda, and I could get to that stage’.
“It’s showing them anything’s possible. So then, across the whole range of things if we can celebrate that, we should take that opportunity.”
The Matildas will play against Sweden for third place in the Women’s World Cup on Saturday 19 August at 6pm, with many Australians eager to watch in support once again.
