FOOTBALL around the region will receive an injection of funds when the AFL's NAB Challenge game lands in Ballarat early next month.
While the AFL is reviewing the make-up of teams that will take part in the match on March 6 at Eureka Stadium, it has been confirmed that profits from the match will be split between the Victorian Country Football League central office, the region's VCFL administrative hub - including Ballarat, Central Highlands and Lexton Plains football leagues - and the North Ballarat Football Club.
The funds will be specifically pumped into facilities development.
North Ballarat will use its share of the money to improve lighting at Eureka Stadium and the number-two oval precinct.
"This investment will not only provide better training facilities, but will increase the prospect of local leagues playing night matches at Eureka Stadium and enhance the ability to attract other events," North Ballarat CEO
Mark Patterson said.
Mr Patterson said it was up to the club to put on a good show for the football community of Ballarat.
"It's really good for football in the region and it's one of those ways the AFL can tangibly support regional football," Mr Patterson said.
"It really is now for the football supporters in the region to get behind the game so we can maximise the benefits for local footy.
"If we could get 2500-3000 paying supporters to the game that would be a fabulous result for everybody."
Ballarat Football League CEO Rod Ward said money made available to the region's VCFL hub would support the expansion of administration facilities at Saxon House.
"We are delighted that our facilities upgrade will benefit from the NAB Challenge game and I encourage all of our supporters and stakeholders to get behind this day, as it is a fantastic event for football in Ballarat," Mr Ward
said.
The NAB Challenge game had originally been scheduled to feature Richmond and the loser of the Geelong versus North Melbourne match, to be played at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
However, that match will now be played at Yea on February 27.
The Ballarat game kicks off at 2pm on March 6.
Last Modified on 01/03/2010 16:02