Christchurch United Football Club and Halswell United Football Club Announce Memorandum of Understanding Developmental Partnership
Christchurch, New Zealand – 30th June 2023
Christchurch United Football Club and Halswell United AFC are delighted to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a developmental partnership. This strategic alliance aims to capitalise on Christchurch's strong population growth and burgeoning interest in football, with the goal of transforming the region into a prominent football hub in Canterbury.
With their shared vision, available resources, and geographical proximity, Christchurch United Football Club and Halswell United AFC have identified each other as ideal long-term partners for driving development and creating a positive, proactive, and high-quality pathway for their members' football enjoyment and growth.
Under the terms of the MoU, both clubs will maintain their full independence while operating as strong and committed development partners. The partnership will foster collaboration and mutual support in various areas, including coach and player development programming, as well as enhancing pathway opportunities for players within both clubs, particularly in the academy and elite environments and shared use of each clubs facilities.
To ensure effective governance and decision-making, an executive committee comprising representatives from both Christchurch United Football Club and Halswell United AFC will be established. This committee will work in good faith, leveraging the combined resources and marketing capabilities of both clubs to drive joint projects and achieve the shared developmental objectives.
Slava Meyn, President of Christchurch United FC, expresses his delight, affirming, "We are thrilled to be able to enhance the opportunities and progress of our players and coaches through a collaboration with Halswell United AFC. While both clubs maintain their independence, this partnership allows us to collectively leverage our resources, facilities, and development initiatives." Meyn emphasizes the positive outcomes of this collaboration, stating, "Together, we can provide an improved foundation for grassroots, junior, and youth football prospects, fostering growth and success for players within our locality. Moreover, we remain committed to offering inclusive community football to our entire community".
Ian Ebbs, President Halswell United AFC added “It's exciting for Halswell United AFC to be able to provide better opportunities and pathways for our players and coaches by working together with Christchurch United, whilst remaining independent clubs at the same time. Our shared resources, facilities & development mean we will be able to provide better grassroots, juniors and youth football prospects for growth & success for players in our area, while still offering our community football for all”.
"We are extremely excited to begin this developmental partnership with Halswell United AFC” said Paul Holocher Head Of Academy and Methodology at Christchurch United. "Both clubs are aligned on a vision of what we would like to achieve together. The Canterbury region is growing in numbers each and every year. Our goal will be to help more young kids fall in love with football by providing outstanding developmental programming, as well as a clear and positive pathway for both players and coaches to grow in the game”
Oliver Hawkins, Football Development Manager at Halswell United, added, "Six months of conversations have resulted in today's announcement. The announcement has come from a process of understanding both Club's strengths, challenges and now the vision for football in the South-West of Christchurch.
The synergy in football conversations thus far we hope will ultimately improve the standard in all facets of football development. Enhancing capabilities in knowledge, resources, and infrastructure, but most importantly - creating greater opportunities for Players and Coaches within the pathway. We at Halswell United are super excited to get stuck into this partnership. "
This strategic partnership between Christchurch United Football Club and Halswell United AFC is poised to bring significant benefits to both clubs and the wider football community in Christchurch. By pooling their expertise, resources, and passion for the game, these two clubs aim to create a lasting legacy in the region's football landscape.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Craig Crawford
craig@evolutioncreative.co.nz
+64 21325611
About Christchurch United Football Club:
Christchurch United Football Club is a prominent football club based in Christchurch, New Zealand. With a rich history and commitment to player development, CUFC is dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering a love for the beautiful game.
Website: www.cufc.co.nz
About Halswell United AFC:
Halswell United AFC is a thriving football club located in Halswell, Christchurch. Renowned for its strong community focus and commitment to youth development, HUAFC provides a supportive environment for players of all ages and skill levels.
Website: www.hawkfootball.org.nz
