FC Birrarung is a community football club located in Melbourne, Australia. The club is run by dedicated volunteers who prioritise the safety and enjoyment of their players above winning. With a total of 255 players, 32 coaches, 18 team managers, 4 canteen coordinators, 1 kit room manager, and 7 committee members, FC Birrarung is a vibrant and inclusive club that welcomes individuals of all abilities, ages, gender identifications, countries of birth, and religious beliefs.
The club offers various programmes and training opportunities for its players. One notable programme is the summer skills programme, available for registration in 2023, which focuses on developing players' skills. Additionally, FC Birrarung provides goalkeeper training on Tuesday nights, led by specialist coach Julie Ryan. Julie brings significant experience, having represented NSW at national championships and coached at the W-League level with the National Training Centre and Victorian Institute of Sport.
The club's training sessions are held on various pitches, including SOC 1-6 and the overflow. Players are required to wear the black and white away kit during training. FC Birrarung follows a weather policy where, unless advised otherwise, training and matches proceed in all weather conditions, based on the referee's discretion. However, severe electrical storms and ground closures by the council may result in training cancellations.
FC Birrarung takes pride in its players' achievements and supports them with praise, rather than yelling instructions from the sidelines. The club has various teams, ranging from under 7 to senior levels, participating in different leagues and competitions. Noteworthy accomplishments include the U12 Boys' team being crowned Wallabies North12 leadings, the U18 Girls' team finishing as runners-up in the NW league, and the U20s being crowned 20A Metropolitan leadings and Champions.
In summary, FC Birrarung is a welcoming and inclusive community football club in Melbourne. With an emphasis on fun, long-term player development, and fair play, the club is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all its members.