Having formed a partnership in late 2019 at the commencement of the Western United Football Club’s (WUFC) inaugural season, Victoria University Polytechnic is delighted to continue to partner with WUFC in only their second season in the A-League. 

WUFC had a successful inaugural season making it all the way to finals and only missing out on the biggest match of the year by one win, showing that through adversity and unity the club could achieve anything. 

Together we share a passion and commitment to Melbourne’s west and the greater western region of Victoria by supporting and contributing to the prosperity and vibrancy of one of the fastest growing regions in Australia.

Western United is dedicated to growing the world game in the region, including in the regional towns of Geelong and Ballarat. Plans for a world-class stadium in Tarneit will provide widespread infrastructure, economic and community benefits to Wyndham and beyond.

The partnership will provide University staff and students with special opportunities to engage with the newest A-League Club.

Josh Risdon and Allesandro Diamanti

 

Education

A number of current Western United players and studying at Victoria University or are VU Alumni.

Western United players are encouraged to prepare for a career after soccer (football), including continuing their education. Our Elite Athlete program helps players who study at VU to balance study with training and competition demands, by offering flexible study options and career development support.

In 2020 the impact Covid-19 had on the A-League forced the season to end abruptly and provided an opportunity for the partnership to evolve which lead to WUFC and VU Polytechnic collaborating to develop a series of remote-delivered leadership and professional development short courses to enhance the capability of the club’s people.

Moving forward this partnership will provide further opportunities for VU Polytechnic to engage WUFC staff in short course training.

Find out more information about the VU Polytechnic short courses available.

Community

Western United player and current Victoria University student Josh Risdon participated in the VU in the Community Kids Active Recess initiative by VU in the Community to provide free, informative videos for the whole community.

Kids Active Recess with Josh Risdon

Josh Risdon from Western United Football Club go through exercises kids can do at home, including foot skills, passing and soccer tricks

Kids Active Recess: Josh Risdon - Transcript