Grassroots footy is scoring big thanks to a home-grown initiative by the Fleurieu Connections Alliance (FCA), proving that this project is about more than building a road. It’s about building a legacy.

The FCA workforce has chosen to give back to the community in a uniquely local way, donating proceeds from onsite vending machines directly to the junior teams of the Aldinga Football Club, better known as the Aldinga Sharks. The club is located right near where FCA is delivering the Department for Infrastructure and Transport’s Stage 2 duplication of Main South Road between Aldinga and Sellicks Beach.

Since mid-2024, more than $6,500 has been raised and donated to the club, helping support the junior program in practical and meaningful ways. From easing the cost of playing to improving training resources, the support has been well received by players, families and volunteers alike.

Club President Joanne Walsh says the funds have gone a long way, from purchasing much-needed equipment and easing the cost of player registrations, to supporting coach development, off-site training sessions at local gyms and pools, and hosting family-friendly registration days.

“Something as simple as matching warm-up shirts for all our points teams has lifted confidence and camaraderie,” says Joanne. “It gives them a sense of unity from the get-go.”

She says the support has been “awesome” and is making a real difference from the Auskick littlies to the U17 boys’ and girls’ teams.

“A big thank you to you all. Your support has been amazing. For us as volunteers in a community club, having the ability to give more to our juniors is a really good feeling.”

The club is thriving, with membership on the rise. The junior lineup now includes 45 Auskick participants, one U7s, three U9s, two U11 mixed, two U11 girls, U13, U15 and U17 boys, and U14 and U17 girls.

“We believe team sport is a huge part of a child’s development,” Joanne adds. “Learning communication, teamwork, goal setting. These are lifelong skills that matter both on and off the field.”

For FCA General Manager Andrew Coonan, it’s the kind of impact that shows what this project is truly about.

“FCA is proud to play a small part in helping local kids kick on to something incredible,” he says. “Supporting grassroots sport is one way we are contributing to a stronger, more connected community.”