Football 'comes of age'

The Nelson football community says the All Whites' qualification for the World Cup will mean a boost for the game locally, and will create opportunities and challenges for the game.

Nelson Bays Football general manager Clive Beaumont said the organisation was committed to continuing the good work already done by NZ Football and Mainland Football to improve the quality and performance of the game in the region, at all levels.

"The focus has been on developing player skill levels and opportunities, improving the quality of our coaching and putting in place robust management and governance systems and procedure," he said.

Chairman Ian Paterson and Beaumont said the victory would ensure continued growth of the game.

"The game has come of age in our country and football is inspiring many young athletes.

"The latest victory could trigger higher participation levels, and how to manage this will be a topic on the agenda for all football organisations ... Whilst this could create some challenges, such as ground availability, we are committed to providing the best possible opportunities for our young footballers," they said.

- © Fairfax NZ News