Padstow United Football Club FAQ

About the Club

Who is Padstow United FC?

Padstow United FC is a community-based football club providing opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to participate in organised football in a fun, inclusive and supportive environment.

Where is the club based?

The club is based at Playford Park and participates in local competitions administered by the Bankstown District Amateur Football Association (BDAFA).

What age groups does the club cater for?

Padstow United FC offers teams for juniors, seniors, including mixed, female-only and male teams, subject to registrations and team availability.

Registrations

When do registrations open?

Registrations for each season generally open in January. Exact dates are announced on the club website and social media channels.

How do I register?

All players must register online through the Play Football website. Links are provided on the Padstow United FC website and social pages when registrations open. A guide on how to register can be found here.

Is there an early bird discount?

An early bird discount is available for a limited time at the start of the registration period. Details are advertised each season.

Are there discounted fees for younger players?

Yes. Special reduced registration fees apply for younger age groups such as Grade 6 and 7 in 2026. We also accept Active Kids Vouchers and have a family discount for three or more players who register from the same family.

Can my child play with friends?

Friend requests can be noted during registration. While the club will try to accommodate requests, placement cannot be guaranteed.

Teams & Grading

How are teams formed?

Teams are formed based on age groups, registrations received, skill balance and competition requirements.

Are there trials or grading sessions?

Some age groups may require grading or trials, particularly competitive divisions. Trial information is published prior to the season.

Do you offer girls-only teams?

Yes. Padstow United FC supports and actively promotes female football and offers girls-only teams where numbers allow.

Training & Matches

When does training start?

Training typically begins in early March. Team training days and times are confirmed once teams are finalised.

Where are training sessions held?

Training is generally held at Playford Park.

When does the season start?

The season usually commences in late March or early April, depending on competition schedules. Please check the Event Calendar for specific dates.

When are matches played?

Junior and senior matches are played on Saturdays with female competitions for Grade 10/11 and higher on Sundays.

What happens when there is wet weather?

If there is wet weather then parks may be closed by Canterbury Bankstown Council. The status of parks can be found on our Sports Field Availability page or on the Council page.

If there is significant rain on a Friday night or weekend then BDAFA may close certain parks. If that happens they will communicate that to the clubs affected. The club committee then informs the coaches and managers who in turn inform the teams.

All matches are scheduled to go ahead as normal unless advised otherwise. Under no circumstances should parents, players or members contact the club, committee, coaches or team managers to ask whether matches are going ahead.

In the event of wet weather or a ground closure, any match cancellations will be communicated by the club as soon as the information is received.

Uniforms & Equipment

What uniform is required?

Players are required to wear the official Padstow United FC jersey, shorts and socks for matches.

How do I purchase a uniform?

Uniform details and ordering information are provided prior to the season or at designated uniform days.

What equipment does my child need?

Players must provide their own football boots, shin pads and a water bottle. Shin pads are compulsory for all matches and training.

Sponsorship

Padstow United FC welcomes sponsorship from local businesses and community partners who share the club’s values and commitment to grassroots football. Sponsorship opportunities vary throughout the season and may include team sponsorship, signage, uniforms, digital promotion or event support. All sponsorships are subject to club approval and must align with the club’s code of conduct and community standards. Interested parties should contact the club directly to discuss available opportunities, inclusions and terms.

Volunteers & Coaching

Do you need volunteers?

Yes. Padstow United FC relies on volunteers to operate successfully. Coaches, managers, canteen helpers and committee members are always needed.

Do coaches need qualifications?

Coaches are encouraged to complete relevant coaching courses. The club supports coach education and development.

Do volunteers require a Working With Children Check?

Yes. All coaches, managers and volunteers working with children must hold a valid Working With Children Check. You can apply for a WWC here.

Fees & Refunds

What does the registration fee include?

Registration fees typically cover association fees, insurance, referee costs, ground usage and basic club administration.

Are refunds available?

Refunds are subject to the club refund policy which can be found here. Requests must be submitted in writing and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Communication

How will I receive club updates?

Updates are shared via email, the club website and social media channels. Team-specific information is usually communicated by coaches or managers.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

General enquiries can be sent via the club’s contact email or website contact form.

Code of Conduct

What behaviour is expected from players and parents?

Padstow United FC expects all members, parents and spectators to behave respectfully and follow the club’s Code of Conduct at all times. When registering, all players and parents accept the Padstow United FC Code of Conduct which can be found here and here.

What happens if the Code of Conduct is breached?

Breaches may result in disciplinary action in line with club and association policies.

General

Can new players join after the season starts?

Registrations are accepted until June 30 subject to availability and association approval.

Does the club run social or community events?

Yes. The club regularly hosts community events, fundraisers and social activities throughout the season. We also have presentations for both seniors and juniors each year.

Where can I find the latest information?

The most up-to-date information is available on the Padstow United FC website and official social media pages.