Football Federation Victoria is pleased to announce that 2012 will see the introduction of a junior benefit program for all registered Optus Small Sided Footballers.

In responding to customer feedback, FFV has not only frozen fees to reflect 2008 prices but has also invested in a quality equipment pack for all 2012 registered OSSF players aged 5 - 11. The pack will provide everything a youngster needs to begin their football career, including:

• A gym bag with a built in boot compartment
• A pair of shin guards
• Their very own football (size 3 for U7s – U9s, and, size 4 for U10s – U11s)
• A pump to ensure their ball is always good to go
• A participation medal (which clubs can present at the end of the season)

Not only will this pack provide the basics for all young footballers, but it should also alleviate some of the associated costs incurred by clubs and parents. The pack ensures that parents and children alike receive more value for their money, whilst simultaneously making the sport more affordable.

Please ensure that all players are registered on My Football Club as these packs will be delivered to clubs in late March. Each club will receive the exact amount of packs as per their OSSF registrations on My Football Club.

To ensure that OSSF continues to grow from strength to strength, FFV have also amended team entry fees in 2012. To encourage the growth in the girls game, all OSSF girls teams will be exempt of paying a team entry fee. In addition, all clubs will also have the team entry fee of one boys OSSF team waived for each OSSF girls team that is entered. Clubs are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and actively recruit more girls. FFA have provided tailored recruitment packs to assist clubs in this venture which are available to download from FFV’s website.

As always, FFV are excited about the season ahead, especially for Grassroots football. 2012 should see the most affordable and rewarding year of OSSF yet.