A new partnership between two clubs will lead to Rotorua having a stronger side in next year’s Lotto NRFL Southern Conference.
Ngongotahā AFC and Lakes FC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, agreeing to collaborate for the benefit of Rotorua football.
Their intention is to field a team in the new Conference competition, to be called Ngongotahā Lakes FC.
They will also have an U-23 team drawn from both clubs, a requirement for their inclusion in the Conference.
The Southern Conference, and its Northern Conference counterpart, replace Lotto NRFL Division Two in a restructure of regional competitions.
In a combined statement, the clubs say of the U-23 team: “This is particularly exciting and this brings a new opportunity for the next generation of emerging talent to play at a highly competitive level without needing to leave Rotorua.
“After looking at the requirements of this new structure, representatives from both Ngongotahā AFC and Lakes FC met to discuss how we might collaborate for the benefit of local football.
“Ngongotahā AFC and Lakes FC are proud to announce that we have committed to working together not just for the 2023 season but also to building the foundation of a long-term, sustainable partnership via a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
“Ngongotahā will bring significant experience in the senior men’s space with a core of players that have been in and around this level for a long time.
“Lakes have made no secret that we want the best opportunities for local talent and see working with Ngongotahā as an opportunity to enhance our pathway for our fledgling club of more than 700 members. Enabling both our men and women to be playing at the best possible level right here in our home town.
“Both clubs are excited to work together and see just how far this partnership can take football in Rotorua, beginning in 2023.”
Coaches named for new team
Rich Barter will be the Head Coach of Ngongotahā Lakes for the 2023 season, assisted by Carl Chadwick and Andy Willis.
Players interested in finding out more about the Southern Conference opportunities are invited to contact either club.
Ngongotahā contacts >>>>
Lakes contacts >>>>
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