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The Blues have a long-standing history of success in the Hunter region, built on consistency, teamwork and a deep connection to their community. That same focus on people and performance is what makes this partnership feel like a natural fit.
A club shaped by its people
Newcastle City AFC has built its success over a long time. Not just through results on the field, but through the people who keep showing up behind it.
Coaches, volunteers, players and families all play a role in keeping the club moving each week. It’s that shared effort that creates an environment where people can grow, stay connected and feel part of something bigger than the game.
Club President Courtney Knight sees that impact every season.
“We’re a really diverse group of people,” Courtney says. “Different ages, different backgrounds. For us, that community comes first. The football probably comes second.”
For younger players, especially, that environment becomes a foundation. Learning how to work as a team. Turning up when it matters. Understanding what it means to be part of a group that relies on each other.
“Commitment, hard work, teamwork,” Courtney says. “If those foundations are there, everything else follows.”
Where teamwork looks the same
This partnership is about backing the community we work and live in.
Newcastle is home for many of our people. It’s where they spend their weekdays and their weekends, and where local clubs like Newcastle City AFC play an important role in bringing people together.
“They’re one of those clubs people naturally gravitate to,” says Ned Shanahan, Business Development Manager NSW. “It’s always been about community. Bringing people together and giving them something to be part of.”
That focus aligns closely with how we work at Symal. Construction is a team effort. It relies on coordination, accountability and people pulling in the same direction to get the job done safely and properly.
The same can be said for grassroots sport. Different people, different roles, one shared outcome.
“When you walk into the club, you can feel it,” Ned says. “People want to improve, but they also want to give back to what’s given them opportunity.”
Building on and off the ground
As the club continues to grow, that environment becomes even more important.
There are always players at different stages. Finishing school. Starting work. Figuring out what’s next. The club plays a role in helping shape that transition, both on and off the field.
“We’ve got a lot of young people working out their next steps,” Courtney says. “Being connected with organisations like Symal opens up opportunities that can genuinely make a difference.”
That’s where the value of this partnership sits. Not only in supporting a club with a strong history, but in investing in a place where people build confidence, develop skills and stay connected to their community.
Newcastle City AFC has been doing that for generations, and we’re proud to be part of it in 2026.
Wishing the Blues all the best for the rest of the season ahead!
