Launceston will soon have the soccer world's attention, playing a role in hosting the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
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University of Tasmania Stadium is one of twelve sites across Australia and New Zealand earmarked to host games.
Federal Sports Minister and Tasmanian senator Richard Colbeck said the inclusion of UTAS Stadium as part of the playing program would bring football fans from across the world to Tasmania.
"It will be great for tourism and local economies from the State's North down to Hobart and it will help elevate the women's game like never before," he said.
It's inspiring for young girls in northern Tasmania and across the state to watch world class female soccer players on their very own door step.
- Bridget Archer
Women's and Small Business Minister Sarah Courtney said the event would also be a boost for businesses dependent on tourism, providing much needed optimism amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"It's wonderful for young girls and boys to see elite sportswomen here competing and sending a really healthy message about participation in sport," Ms Courtney said.
"Having an iconic event such as the World Cup here in Launceston would be an absolute coup."
Launceston is slated to host three group stage games, with the possibility of the city serving as a training base as well.
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City of Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said UTAS Stadium was an ideal facility to be the state's hub for world-class soccer.
Northern Tasmania Development Corporation chief executive Mark Baker said the stadium was no stranger to hosting world-class sports, having hosted a sell-out match between Namibia and Romania during the 2003 Rugby World Cup.
"That [rugby] was a game most Tasmanians knew nothing about," Mr Baker said.
"With soccer - the number one sport in the state and participation increasing rapidly, particularly with females, this is an opportunity that will inspire generations to come."
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Bass MHR Bridget Archer added the World Cup would further increase soccer participation in the state.
"It's inspiring for young girls in northern Tasmania and across the state to watch world class female soccer players on their very own door step," Ms Archer said.