The Fremantle Dockers’ new elite training and administration facility has received a glowing review from Premier Colin Barnett.
With the project nearing completion, the Premier was taken on a tour behind the scenes by Fremantle Dockers CEO Steve Rosich and Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett.
Fremantle's new primary training base is a joint undertaking of the City of Cockburn and the Fremantle Dockers, with the State Government also contributing to the $109 million project.
“I doubt it could be matched anywhere in the world, it is magnificent,” Barnett said.
“I have absolutely no doubt that there is no community, sporting and recreation facility that also acts as premises for a major sports team, that could match this,” Barnett said.
“I was particularly impressed by the aquatic facilities, and for the Fremantle Dockers, without any doubt you’ve got the best training facility of any AFL team.”
Ruckman Zac Clarke was on hand to give a players’ perspective on the tour, taking the Premier to see his new locker in the changeroom that is three times bigger than the players' room at Fremantle Oval.
“As you can see, it’s unbelievable,” Clarke said.
“From what we’ve come from to this - it’s a world class venue and all of the players are excited to start training here.”
Zac Clarke and the Premier admire Clarke's new #30 locker
Addressing the media, Steve Rosich said Fremantle’s new primary training base was the culmination of years of careful planning.
“The vision is almost a reality,” Rosich said.
“We’ve had the chance to look at the best facilities in Australia and internationally and bring that here to Cockburn for the Fremantle Dockers.”
“We’re really excited about the prospects of moving here in a few weeks’ time.
“I echo the Premier’s words, it’s as good as we’ve seen anywhere in the world, and it’s certainly the best in this country.”
Dale Alcock, Steve Rosich, Zac Clarke, Premier Colin Barnett and Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett
Rosich added that the club is already reaping the benefits.
“We showed the players around the facility just after the 2016 season, and you could see the excitement in their eyes,” Rosich said.
“In terms of attracting players, we saw first hand the impact it had on our great trade period. We attracted four young West Australians from other AFL teams, and I can tell you they did see this facility before making their decisions, and I have no doubt that did help.”
Click here to view the Fremantle Dockers training facility and Cockburn ARC fact sheet.
