Western United will take steps towards growing its digital footprint by partnering with SquadFalse9 (SF9) for the 2022-23 A-Leagues season.
The partnership will see Western United and SF9 collaborating online and in real life with football-related content, while SF9 will provide United with two of its professional EA Sports FIFA players for the 2023 E-League season.
Western United General Manager of Commercial, Chris Speldewinde, said:
“As a Club, we acknowledged the widespread growth and opportunities in the digital space which we are yet to capitalise on. Through this partnership with SF9, we have the chance to reach a younger audience and grow the Western United brand not only in Australia but globally.
“As current champions of the E-League, we want to continue being innovative within esports and digital content. Working with SF9, the opportunities for content, events and digital growth are endless and we are super excited to see where it takes us.”
Professional footballer and SquadFalse9 founder, Mitch Austin, said:
“This is a great opportunity for both Western United and SF9 to continue to grow their respected brands in the digital space. Esports attracts a younger demographic than traditional sports and is the world’s fastest-growing spectator sport right now.
“We look forward to working with Western United to provide both sets of fans with new and immersive ways to engage with the club.”
SF9 is the largest FIFA esports organisation in the Oceania region. With a team of content creators and competitive FIFA players, SF9 has over 900,000 followers across social media platforms and a monthly reach of over 55 million people.
A specialised kit has been created and will be worn by SF9’s content creators and United’s E-League players, opening the potential for new partnership opportunities allowing businesses to work with Western United and SF9 to grow their own brands.
Western United and SF9 hope to continue growing football in Australia through this partnership which can bring FIFA 23 fans to Western United games, and Western United fans supporting the SF9 team through their respective FIFA 23 content.
