Soccer: Back in black for accolade

Rockingham City Council has won the Industry Award for Management at the Sport and Recreation Industry Awards for its efforts in helping Rockingham City Football Club get back on its feet.

Picture: City of Rockingham community development manager Michael Holland with Rockingham City Football club president Clive Higgins.

Held at Challenge Stadium every two years, the awards recognise innovation and exceptional achievement across of areas of sport and recreation in Western Australia and are a badge of honour for any organisation in the industry.

The council’s nomination was based on a debt recovery project, which saw Rockingham City Football Club brought out of the red.

According to Mayor Barry Sammels, the club is now successfully repaying its loan to the council and is rapidly growing in membership and player numbers.

‘‘This award provides recognition for the most effective and sustainable management practices by a sport and recreation organisation,’’ he said.

Club president Clive Higgins said the club was looking forward to a more financially secure 2012 season.

‘‘It just goes to show what great things can happen when sporting clubs work with local councils,’’ he said.

‘‘We are very grateful.’’

Cr Sammels said he was proud of the work and outcome achieved by council officers.

‘‘I would like to acknowledge the city officers who worked on this project and made it a success, together with the commitment of Rockingham City Football Club to a successful and sustainable future for the club,’’ he said.