The UC Capitals are starting to hit max capacity at their home games. Photo: UC Capitals
Canberra’s sports landscape has the potential to change dramatically in the next 12 months.
The bid for an A-Leagues licence in Canberra is yet to get over the line despite much talk that it was close to happening.
Unfortunately, it has been that way for the past 18 months.
Every couple of months, it would seem there is a burst of renewed enthusiasm for the bid, followed by momentum dropping off as quickly as it was gained.
If a financial backer can’t be found, the future of Canberra United comes back into question with the ACT Government indicating that the increased funding this season was a one-off.
Canberra United was teetering in 2024 and needs ongoing financial support to survive. Photo: Save Canberra United Facebook.
To potentially lose one of the City’s most prominent sports teams would be a travesty.
The hope is that the ACT Government will continue to support Canberra United financially if there is no A-League consortium.
The new ownership of the WNBL next year will hopefully lift the league to another level.
It is hoped the belt-tightening at the University of Canberra will not impact the prospects of the UC Capitals.
Like Canberra United, the Caps have been synonymous with female sporting success, from which Canberra has derived so much pride and status as the home of women’s sport.
The NBL has already forecast their desire to have a team in Canberra after the void left by the departure of the Cannons.
Securing an NBL licence would require significant financial support from the Canberra business sector, and there are doubts that backing will be forthcoming.
Then there is the campaign to have a Big Bash franchise in the ACT with the City showing their support for the format with big crowds for Thunder games at Manuka.
Manuka Oval is an excellent venue for Big Bash and a potential home for a Canberra franchise. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
There is the possibility of movement on that front in 2025, but it will require deep pockets and plenty of corporate support.
The long-running saga of a replacement stadium for GIO seemingly has no end in sight, with debate continuing over where it should be located.
Meanwhile, there is optimism within the ACT ice sports community that the new facility at Tuggeranong will be up and running in 2025.
Sports facilities continue to be an issue with the rapid growth in population not matched by facilities to play sport in the ACT.
This includes the current debate over a replacement for Phillip Pool.
Let’s hope that 2025 sees some certainty for teams, facilities and fans.
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