The current head of game development and national participation manager for Football Federation Australia was appointed to Tasmania’s top job last week.

Four weeks out from taking up the CEO role, Bulkeley said it is too soon to address a proposed rise of teams for the National Premier Leagues Tasmania competition from eight to 10 next season.

The controversial decision has raised the ire of grassroots supporters over fears of a lack of player depth for the statewide competition.

Players and fans from top-flight clubs, including both Launceston City and Northern Rangers, have voiced their opinions against the move.

“I’m broadly aware of some of those discussions, but I haven’t had any detailed discussions with anyone, whether it be the board or any other persons within Tasmania yet,” Bulkeley said.

“So I really want to have those conversations first and understand what has been communicated so far to the clubs and what has the process been before I really comment further, as I really want to know more detail rather than just coming up with some position without having all the information.

“What I would say is that I understand what some of the [club’s] challenges might be.”

Northern Championship club Riverside Olympic has already expressed a desire to join the expanded NPL Tasmania competition next season following redevelopments at Windsor Park. 

Bulkeley said his vision for the future of the game in Tasmania was not dictated solely by the boardroom.

That will only be decided when he talks to all stakeholders around the state.

“I want to make sure I have my seat at the table, but also want to get out and about to talk to as many people as possible,” Bulkeley said

“I just want to understand what their issues are and what the opportunities they think exist. But I know that the board have already kind of shared the vision of continuing to grow the game to be as successful as possible.”

Bulkeley said ensuring a synthetic pitch was located in Launceston is a “high priority”, as part of improving facilities around the state.

He said the opportunities far outweigh any challenges.

“The opportunity to come and join an organisation like Football Federation Tasmania and be able to work with the dedicated stakeholders is really what attracted me to the job,” Bulkeley said.

“I think there is a really great foundation down there, so to help build on that I think is quite exciting.”

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