“We’re going to get ‘on the front foot’ in relation to this issue,’’ NNSWF CEO, David Eland said.

“The cost of player registration fees are often misrepresented and subsequently labelled as expensive. 

“The well reported registration fees charged by a very small number of elite clubs in Sydney and to a lesser extent Melbourne are in no way reflective of registration fees charged by grassroots clubs throughout Northern NSW. In fact player registration fees throughout Northern NSW are well below the national average.”

NNSWF will publish the registration fees payable by entry level (5, 6 and 7 years) and junior (8 to 11 years) players at every community club throughout Northern NSW on the organisation’s website network in order to assist parents to make an informed decision about which sport their children should play. 

The amount that each of the administrative structures receives from player registration fees will also be outlined.

 “NNSWF accepts that it costs more to play football than some of the other football codes, but it’s not expensive when compared to a myriad of other sports and recreational pursuits. Preliminary information indicates an entry level player will pay approximately $120 and a junior player $140 to play in the 2014 football season,” Eland continued. 

“The reality is that football will continue to cost more to play than rugby league or AFL for the foreseeable future due largely to the revenue generated from NRL and AFL broadcast rights, but it’s by no means expensive.” 

Across the season, an entry level player will have the opportunity to participate in a minimum of 14 competitive fixtures and 14 training sessions at an average cost of $4.50 per session which includes a ball and shin pads provided by the Newcastle Permanent in conjunction with their major sponsorship of junior football throughout Northern NSW. 

“NNSWF and local nember zones (including Football Mid North Coast) remain committed to keeping registration fees affordable for families,’’ Eland added.

“Our strategic focus is to assist clubs to deliver the best value possible through an enjoyable participation experience. 

“The appointment of an additional club development officer, female participation officer and referees development officer are indicative of Northern NSW Football’s aim to assist clubs in this regard. Coaches of junior teams also have the opportunity to complete a free Grassroots Coaching Certificate.” Eland concluded.

 Registrations for most football clubs throughout Northern NSW open on February 1. 

Entry level and junior player registration fees will be posted on NNSWF’s website network from next week.