The Shoalhaven District Junior Soccer Association was established on February 4th, 1963, originally named the Shoalhaven Junior Soccer Association. The first teams were formed from Nowra Youth Club, Nowra Primary, Bomaderry Primary, and Terara Schools, with a total of six teams competing in the inaugural season.

 

In 1972, the Association rebranded as the Shoalhaven District Amateur Soccer Association, marking a significant milestone by officially introducing senior teams into the competition. While senior football had been played socially in the Shoalhaven region since the late 1940s, with matches often featuring visiting teams—many comprised of players from HMAS Albatross—it wasn’t until the early 1970s that local senior teams began competing against clubs from the Southern Tablelands and the Highlands.

 

In 2007, the Association adopted its current name, Shoalhaven District Football Association (SDFA). Today, SDFA boasts over 3,000 registered players, both male and female, competing in various competitions. The Association’s coverage spans from Shoalhaven Heads to Milton Ulladulla, with its home ground at South Nowra Sporting Complex, featuring six fully irrigated and floodlit fields.

 

Year-Round Football in Shoalhaven

Football in Shoalhaven runs all year:

• Winter competitions conclude in September
• Summer 7-a-side kicks off in October for both seniors and juniors

 

Additionally, Southern NSW teams Southern Branch and South East Phoenix compete in Football NSW's Association Youth League and Skill Acquisition Programs (for Under 9 to Under 12 Boys and Under 13 Girls). South East Phoenix also competes in the NPL from Under 14s to First Grade.

 

Shoalhaven football continues to grow, providing opportunities for players of all ages to develop and enjoy the game!