As announced in May, the Macquarie University sports fields precinct will be upgraded over the next two years, with long-term partner Sydney Football Club funding a new Centre of Excellence and contributing to new facilities and improved training grounds that will benefit the whole University community.
Why is Macquarie upgrading the sports fields?
Sydney FC has been a tenant in the University’s sports precinct for many years, training on the fields and leasing the old, tired Blue Barclay Pavilion for coaching and administration. Sydney FC have recently secured funding from the NSW Government which has created an opportunity to develop a new Centre of Excellence Facility for the club and, in partnership with the University, an upgrade of the fields.
The agreement means that the Macquarie University sports community will benefit from a new synthetic field suitable for a variety of sports in all weather conditions, and access to the new Centre of Excellence building. In return Sydney FC will have a more permanent home for their club.
What other benefits will the Sydney FC partnership have?
Partnering with an elite professional sporting organisation opens up new collaboration opportunities with MQ Health, as well as within learning, teaching and research. Students will have opportunities to complete PACE practicums with the club.
Sydney FC and Macquarie University will explore research possibilities with the Centre for Elite Performance, Expertise and Training and Concussion and the Repetitive Head Trauma Research Group.
Will it impact student use of the facility?
No current club or student usage will be impacted by the arrangement. The sports fields will continue to be a Macquarie University owned and operated multisport precinct, with the new Centre of Excellence to be occupied by Sydney FC under a long-term lease agreement. This partnership allows Sydney FC to access the facility during quiet times for students (i.e. morning and early afternoon). The peak times for student and club usage have been protected as part of this partnership and will continue to be so.
When will the works be completed?
Completion of the facility is expected in the second half of 2022. Community access to the precinct will be maintained throughout construction and disruption will be kept to a minimum.
Centre of Excellence with existing Winter Field.
Centre of Excellence view from north end of car park looking towards entry.
Further updates about the sports fields precinct development will be provided throughout the process. If you have any further questions or feedback about the development please contact musf_development@mq.edu.au.
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