Three stadiums across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty region will play host to WaiBOP United during the 2013/14 ASB Premiership campaign. WaiBOP United’s primary home base for the season will be Hamilton’s Beetham Park, which is tucked neatly in behind Waikato Stadium. The franchise will also play two home matches in the Bay of Plenty, with games set for Rotorua International Stadium and Links Ave Stadium, Mt Maunganui.
WaiBOP United host their opening match of the ASB Premiership season when they play Canterbury United at Rotorua International Stadium on Sunday November 10. This match will be the second half of a double header on opening day. Earlier on the same day WaiBOP Football is set to play Mainland Football in the ASB National Women’s League. This will allow fans to take in two quality matches on a day that showcases football in this region.
The first home game at Beetham Park will be played on Saturday November 23 when WaiBOP United hosts Hawke’s Bay United. WaiBOP Football’s Acting CEO, Peter Arndell, said Beetham Park was chosen out of necessity. “We wanted a central Hamilton venue for the bulk of our home games and Beetham Park fits the bill,” explains Arndell. “The surface is good and it’s an easy venue to get to, with plenty of parking. Once we’ve set it up with seating, sponsors facilities and other amenities it will be a nice, tight, atmospheric little ground.”
Links Ave Stadium in Mt Maunganui will host a unique double header on February 1, 2014. The ASB Premiership match between WaiBOP United and newcomers Juniors SC (the New Zealand Under-20s) will be the main game, while the curtain-raiser will see WaiBOP United’s Youth team host the New Zealand Under-17 side. This will be a great opportunity to watch some of the best youth talent in New Zealand.
A full version of the ASB Premiership draw will be available soon.
For more information please contact:
Peter Arndell, Acting CEO, WaiBOP Football Federation
Dwayne Barlow, Communications Manager, WaiBOP Football Federation
