For the first time since 2013, A-League games will be played in Tasmania this year following an agreement between the Tasmanian Government, Western United Football Club, and Football Tasmania.

Premier Peter Gutwein said the agreement would see Victorian club Western United host two games per year at UTAS Stadium in Launceston across the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

Calder United, a women’s team affiliated with Western United, will also play a match against a Tasmanian women’s select team in 2021, with a W-League game to be played in 2022.

“The return of A-League games to Launceston is a great win for our State and once again confirms Tasmania’s ability to host elite level sport,” the Premier said.

“Tasmania has a rich sporting history and this partnership is another important marker in our plan to secure elite sports that deliver numerous economic benefits, as well as positioning Tasmania as a destination of choice for visitors.

“We have seen strong growth in football participation in recent years in Tasmania, and this will further create opportunities and incentives to develop our local talent, as well as further our ambition to establish an A-League team of our own here in Tasmania.”

As part of the agreement, the Government will provide funding of $480,000 across two years which will include junior football clinics and youth camps attended by the WUFC and Calder United players and coaches.

Minister for Sport and Recreation Jane Howlett said the partnership would encourage further participation in football across the State.

“Football is surging in popularity as a participation sport in Tasmania and this partnership with Western United Football Club and the A-League will further encourage people to take up the sport at all levels,” Minister Howlett said.

“Tasmania is already punching above our weight in our ability to host elite level sporting events, including the introduction of our very own NBL team later this year.

“There is no doubt that Tasmanians love their sport and I encourage everyone to turn out in force and get behind Western United in their home away from home, as well as supporting our own Tasmanian women’s team when they face Calder United.”