On the back of the women’s Wildcats taking out the 2017 title, men’s division making the playoffs and the second women’s team missing out by one match, there has been a huge increase in interest around the sport.

So much so it is expected Wellington will field two men’s and two women’s teams in the 2018 competition.

Incoming president, Peter Lewsam, said it is an exciting time for the club which has also noted major growth in the juniors competition. 

“We have already had interest from past and new players about joining and at this point we believe that we will field four very competitive teams,” he said.

“The flow-on effect for the town in having over 100 players and officials from out-of-town teams visiting Wellington every fortnight should also be beneficial for the town's business houses.” 

Lewsam will lead the committee in what is earmarked to be one of the club’s most successful years.

Lewsam’s appointment comes after a 19-year stint as president by Geert Woldhuis who will instead take on a coaching role and is set to become the club’s first life member.

Woldhuis coached the Under 13s representative team through an undefeated season in 2017.

“Geerts dedication to the organisation has been tireless and it is fair to say that the club would not be in the strong position it is without his input and expertise,” Lewsam said.

The committee has appointed Damien Beattie as coaching director this year, the aim to develop the skills, fitness, and style of play from kids as young as Under 11s.

“Wellington has some outstanding young players that with some further input could play at a higher level in future years,” Lewsam said.

“Last year saw the Under 11 warriors teams achieve outstanding results in the Dubbo Competition, the Under 13s won the Dubbo competition and the Under 17s beaten in the final.

“This year we hope to enter teams in the Under 11, 13, 15, and 17s age groups in Dubbo for those wanting to represent their town and play a higher level of competition.”

Wellington will also look to enter teams in the Western area representative competition.

Seniors pre-season training starts this month with sessions held at Pioneer Park from 6.30pm each Sunday. An intraclub game will be played at Rygate on February 9 with the women playing each other at 6pm and the men to follow at 8pm.

Anyone looking for a game despite their ability should make contact through the club’s website at wellingtonsoccer.com.au

Junior registrations will take place in February with registration dates available via the website in coming weeks.

Parents will also be able to take advantage of the NSW governments Active kids program which gives every child between the ages of 4.5 and 18 years old and enrolled at school a $100 voucher to use to help offset the cost of sport registrations.

Wellington Warriors will accept the vouchers which effectively means a zero cost to the parents for their kids to play soccer this year.