Nickol Junior Soccer Club

On a typical weekend in Karratha, the sight of parents performing drop off duties from one sports activity to another is common. 

"It feels as though every sport is big here. At one stage, it felt as if my kids were playing something like eight sports at once", says Karratha Gas Plant Operations Technician and Nickol Junior Soccer Club President, Paul McComb.

The Nickol Junior Soccer Club plays a big part in the local sports club landscape, as the largest soccer club in Karratha. The club has had a membership of up to 300 players, including a number of Woodside families. 

"It does feel a full-time job at times, coordinating the coaches, uniforms and registrations. Thankfully, we have a great committee of parents who have been roped in, like myself."

For Paul, the most gratifying part of being involved with the club is seeing the difference that sport makes in its young players.

"I've seen it in my own kids; when you are involved in sport, you tend to be more motivated and engaged in other areas like school."

The Club received a North West Shelf grant to purchase first aid equipment, including a spinal board. 

"It's unfortunate but leg injuries do happen. This equipment will help us run training with the local volunteer ambulance to make sure the players and coaches know how to respond to an injury."

The equipment is owned by Nickol Junior Soccer Club but will be made available for all soccer clubs in town. 

The Woodside-operated North West Shelf Project have supported the quarterly grants in partnership with the City of Karratha for over 20 years. Find out more about applications here.