MVFC unveils new-look clubhouse a decade in the making

The project initially began 12 years ago, MVFC administrator, Jennifer Wattel, said, simply as part of an effort to grow its facilities.

"We've been in the process for nearly 12 years," Wattel said.

"We basically had one of our general meetings and said we should expand, and it started from there with a lot of grants that we tried to get, and saving from the canteen and little bits of registration money.

"It's been a bit of a process, but we're finally at the finish line now, and it's going to be great for our local sporting community."

The opening of the impressive two-story facility took place after the junior presentations were belatedly held, which had been delayed by the COVID-19 lockdowns. It was attended by MP Wendy Tuckerman, who stood alongside club president, Krystal Meindl, and vice president, Paul Ford as they cut the ceremonial ribbon.

The MVFC was thrilled and relieved to finally open the clubhouse, which has taken up a lot of the committee's time and effort in recent years.

"It's a bit of relief, because especially the last two years, a lot of our focus has gone into the building," Wattel said.

"Now that it's finished, we want to get the community involved and back into everything. It's been good, but it's been a hell of a process."

With a brand new facility at their disposal, Wattel said the club hopes that it can act as a communal hub for local footballers and athletes.

Its potential uses, she said, range from training to a gathering area in which club members can come together and watch the upcoming Women's World Cup.

"We've got the Women's World Cup coming to Australia soon, and we'd like to promote anything we possibly can," Wattel said.

"To get women more involved in the football community would be a good thing. Upstairs, we're hoping to get a grant for a TV and bring the community together. We can go up there and watch games, and it's going to be a great training facility as well.

"It's going to be great."

With the clubhouse completed, the MVFC will next look to organise a potential pre-season tournament to be held in early 2022. The goal will be to warm up for the winter season and bring the clubs together for a day of friendly competition.

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