The Northern Inland Academy of Sport (NIAS) is pleased to announce the transition of its football club, NIAS FC, into the new community-owned Northern Inland Rangers Football Club (NIRFC), set to launch on 1 October 2024. This change marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for football in the region, continuing the NIAS legacy of fostering talent and passion for the game.

The Northern Inland Rangers Football Club (NIRFC) builds upon the strong foundations laid by NIAS FC, which has nurtured football talent in the Northern Inland region since 2021. Following a strategic review and extensive community consultation in 2023, a dedicated group of volunteers, supported by NIAS and Northern NSW Football, has developed the new club structure.

NIRFC will operate from the NIAS office in Tamworth under the guidance of a voluntary Management Committee and Technical Director, Martin Rae. The club will continue and enhance the football programs previously offered by NIAS FC, including SAP, JDL, PYL, and Holiday Clinics.

NIAS FC has played a crucial role in providing access to Northern NSW Football’s Talented Player Pathway (TPP), welcoming over 120 players annually. NIRFC will further strengthen football development in the region, with a renewed focus on community engagement and excellence in the sport.

“This change marks an exciting new chapter for football in the Northern Inland region. NIRFC will continue offering pathway football in the Northern League competition. Our pathways will provide aspiring athletes with opportunities and exposure in the elite competition. NIRFC has big plans under the new club, and we look forward to working with athletes from across the Northern Inland region,” commented Stephen Doley, new NIRFC President.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the community for their unwavering support of NIAS FC over the past three years. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for our community. We are proud of the strong foundation set by NIAS FC and look forward to continuing this journey together and building on our shared success in the region,” said Shona Eichorn, CEO of NIAS.

NIAS will continue to support NIRFC during the transition, ensuring a seamless handover. The club’s new name, colours, governance, and business model will be the only visible changes, with consistent and enhanced offerings for players and coaches focused on football’s growth in the region.

Expressions of Interest for the 2025 season are now open for players, coaches, and volunteers. Interested individuals can apply via the following links:

· NIRFC Player EOI
· NIRFC Coach/Volunteer EOI