sport

Port Melbourne Sharks Youth Pathway Expands Opportunities for Local Players

Club programs and recent facility upgrades expand opportunities for young athletes.

By Port Melbourne Sport Desk · Published 18 July 2026

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Port Melbourne Sharks maintains a structured youth development pathway with National Premier League junior teams for ages U14-U17 and Youth NPL teams for U19-U23, focusing on technical skills and tactical understanding.

Local Programs in Action

The 'One Ball' soccer program, partnered with Port Melbourne Sharks and the City of Port Phillip, supports refugee children from disadvantaged families, currently engaging around 30 boys and girls with plans to reach 50. Port Melbourne Primary School highlights the Sharks' long history in developing junior players who have progressed to overseas clubs and the AFL 'A' League, while Hoop City provides the suburb's primary basketball facility.

Recent Facility Upgrade

The Port Melbourne Skatepark officially reopened on Friday, July 11, 2026, following a major upgrade funded by a $250,000 contribution from Sport and Recreation Victoria, serving as a new hub for youth skating activity. The Port of Melbourne extended its two-year sponsorship of Williamstown FC, funding youth programs like Seagull Session clinics that reached over 1,100 primary school students in Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong in the last 12 months.

Pathway Details

These efforts connect junior participants to higher-level teams through consistent training that emphasises skills development. The programs operate alongside existing community facilities to provide regular sessions for participants across different age groups.

Residents can access details on current youth teams and the 'One Ball' program through the Port Melbourne Sharks website and partner council channels for enrolment information.

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