Lanyon United took to the field this weekend not just for three points, but to honour 20 years of mateship, community spirit, and grassroots football.
Born from a split decades ago that saw one club evolve into Fyshwick and another form the foundations of Lanyon, the club has always been driven by more than just results. As Grant McFadden, a long-time volunteer, current board member, proud father and talented player put it, “This place is about friendship. It’s always been a group of mates working hard for the community. That’s what we do here.”
Now in his third year officially involved, McFadden has lived and breathed every aspect of the club, from administration to barbecues, mentoring, and helping grow Lanyon from the ground up. “My son plays here now. That’s what it’s about staying involved, building something for the next generation,” he said.
The match itself mirrored the values that keep Lanyon ticking. Players from all levels, whether seasoned men’s grade players or club veterans trained together, played together, and stood side-by-side on game day. With no junior program yet in place, McFadden and the club are actively working to rebuild their base, focusing on player recruitment through connection, not competition.
“We don’t have high grades. We don’t split players. We all train as one,Masters, Seniors, everyone. The women help out the men’s grade. We’ve got the masters running the BBQ. That’s the culture. That’s what makes this place special.”
On the pitch, Lanyon showed the grit and cohesion of a group playing for something bigger than a scoreline. Every challenge, every pass, and every goal attempt was backed by the unmistakable energy of a team playing for their friends and their community.
As the sun set on another proud day for the club, the focus turned not to trophies or tables, but to the future. “Success for us,” is just more of this,” McFadden commented. “Growth, connection, and making sure this place is still here in twenty years. That’s our win.”
At Lanyon United, football is just the start what matters most is the people beside you and the spirit that keeps you coming.
As the season progresses, Lanyon United remains steadfast in its commitment to cultivating a club culture rooted in inclusion and resilience. Unlike many clubs driven by league standings or financial incentives, Lanyon thrives on a model of shared responsibility and collective pride. Volunteers are not just helpers on the sidelines they are the backbone of the club, ensuring every game day runs smoothly, every jersey is washed, and every player feels supported. It’s a labour of love, passed down through generations.
This weekend’s clash against Tuggeranong, a neighbouring club with its own strong legacy, offered more than just a competitive fixture, it was a celebration of how football can bring people together. Supporters lined the pitch, sharing stories of past seasons, cheering on familiar faces, and welcoming newcomers with open arms. The rivalry, while competitive, was respectful, a nod to the region’s tight-knit sporting community.
Off the field, the club’s ongoing efforts to secure funding for junior development continue. With plans to introduce youth teams in the coming year, Lanyon United sees its future not just in replicating past successes, but in planting new roots. “We want to give kids in this area a place to belong,” McFadden shared. “Not just to play football, but to grow up surrounded by good people and strong values.”
The heart of Lanyon beats loudest not through grand stadiums or spotlight players, but through weekend warriors, community champions, and the quiet pride of a club doing things its own way. In an era of increasing professionalism in grassroots sport, Lanyon United stands as a reminder that the soul of the game still lives where mateship, passion and purpose meet.
Looking ahead, Lanyon United’s ambitions remain deeply grounded in community. The club isn’t chasing quick wins or flashy headlines it’s building something lasting, something that stands for more than sport. There are plans for more inclusive programs, from junior girls’ teams to walking football for older players. It’s a club for everyone, at every stage of life. As new faces join and old ones return, the mission stays the same: keep the culture strong, keep the doors open, and make sure Lanyon remains a place where football connects people, strengthens friendships, and continues to feel like home.
This is more than football. This is Lanyon.
Words: Charli Fiddes
