Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed the appointment of two participation officers, Phillip Rimmer and Meaghan Watts, to the Wide bay region, reinforcing its commitment to expanding regional football and inviting more community engagement opportunities for local clubs, schools and players.
FQ Game Development initiatives will be lead by Rimmer, based in the Fraser Coast, and Watts, based in Bundaberg across the region with a local, hands-on approach, zeroing in on programs such as Girls United, the FQ & Roar Football in the community program, Walking Football and Sporting schools to improve accessibility and drive participation.
Incoming Participation Officer for Fraser Coast, Philip Rimmer, has expressed his enthusiasm about working closely with local clubs and the community, drawing on his extensive experience in football to help strengthen the game at a grassroots level.
“We have a great opportunity to grow the game not only within clubs but across the wider community, ensuring more people see football as their game of choice – whether it’s playing, coaching, refereeing, or taking on a role in administration,” he said via press release.
“A big focus for me in this role will be mentoring young coaches, showing them the pathways to continue working in football and spreading the love of the sport, as well as showing the kids our great game and putting a smile on their faces.”
Meaghan Watts, the new Participation Officer for Bundaberg, is eager to bring fresh ideas and energy to the role, leveraging her lifelong passion for football and background in sports management.
“This role felt like the perfect fit for me, combining my passion for football with my sports management degree, and I’m excited to get stuck into facilitating programs and seeing both children and adults enjoy the game,” she said via press release.
“Having played football my whole life, I understand the barriers that can exist for girls in the game, and I want to help break down these challenges by creating positive experiences that encourage more women and girls to get involved.”
Together, Rimmer and Watts will collaborate to develop and deliver engaging football programs, aiming to boost school and club participation across the Wide Bay region. Their long-term goal is to achieve a 50/50 gender balance and establish football as the sport of choice in the area.
FQ General Manager – Central Coast Conference Jordie Gerbes welcomed their appointments, emphasising the importance of their roles in providing dedicated, hands-on support to every corner of the Wide Bay region for the first time.
“Phil and Meaghan’s appointments are a key step in our ongoing investment in football across the Wide Bay, with their passion and expertise helping us connect more effectively with local clubs, schools, and participants, driving the sport forward and ensuring its long-term success in the region.”
FQ is poised to strengthen grassroots football in the Wide bay region, fostering a thriving, inclusive community where the game can flourish in the regional sectors for generations to come.
