AusLeisure

National Premier Leagues football club the Melbourne Knights have commenced works on a program of ground and facility improvements at their home venue, the Knights Stadium.

Aiming to enhance the playing experience for both players and fans, the works at the Somers Street venue in Melbourne’s north-west include a new irrigation and drainage system and new perimeter fencing for the main field, new turf for pitches two and three at the venue, upgraded lighting and a brand new small-sided pitch.

The first and most noticeable changes to the facility at Knights Stadium has been the removal of the concrete training drill walls on pitch 3 (six in total), the removal of the old Melbourne Knights Juniors kiosk and the removal of the old Drive-In ticket booth, located adjacent to the old junior’s kiosk. The red and white checker portable change rooms have also been relocated allow for the earthworks to proceed.

Earthworks, irrigation, and drainage
Thanks to Symon Brothers Constructions - a major corporate partner for the knights for the upcoming NPL Victoria 2024 season, pitches 2 and 3 are being dug up and new trenches are being dug out to accommodate for new irrigation and drainage systems.

The new irrigation systems’ technology aims to ensures optimal hydration for the playing surface, creating a consistent and top-quality playing environment.

The Knights advise “with precise water distribution and efficient moisture management, our players can expect a playing field that meets the highest standards all year round.”

Grass Installations
The work on playing surfaces includes Santa Ana Couch grass being laid at pitches 2, 3 and 4, blended with Rye Grass.

Knights advise “this upgrade is designed not only for aesthetic appeal but also for improved playability all year round, with two varieties of grass to give maximum playability during the summer and winter months.”

New Fencing
In addition to the improvements on the playing surface, the club is also investing in the overall security and aesthetics of the facility with addition of new fencing for pitches 2 and 3, as well as the addition of concrete pathways for spectators.

Motivation for the Upgrades
The Knights advise that “these extensive groundworks signify our commitment to creating an environment where football thrives for all our players.

“The investment in drainage and irrigation, high-quality grass, and facility upgrades underlines our dedication to the development and well-being of our players.

“Moreover, it reinforces our desire to provide a welcoming space for our community, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among our players and supporters.

“We understand that our football club is not just a place for football matches but a hub for our community. These upgrades will not only benefit our players but also provide a more enjoyable experience for our fans. The improved aesthetics and functionality of our facility aim to make our football club a focal point for community engagement and pride.”

Football Australia sanction
In September last year, the Knights were sanctioned by Football Australia under the National Code of Conduct and Ethics (over fan behaviour at the Club's Australia Cup 2023 Quarter Final against Heidelberg United FC on 14th September 2023.

As a result, the Knights were issued with a $5,000 fine, 50% of which was suspended for the next three editions of the Australia Cup.

Despite having championed the need for the establishment of a National Second Division for football in Australia, Knights were not successful in their application to be a foundation member of Football Australia’s National Second Tier - set to kick off in 2025.

The newly published Australasian Leisure Management issue 159 includes a feature on how cultural identity can be a point of difference for Football Australia's National Second Tier. Click here to subscribe/access the issue.

Images: The Knights Stadium (top), pitchworks underway at the precinct (middle) and a Melbourne Knights academy/junior team (below). Credit: Melbourne Knights.

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