Graham Arnold’s contribution to Australian football recognised with oval renamed in his honour

A “special place” in Graham Arnold’s heart will now hold more significance for the Socceroos coach.

Socceroos coach Graham Arnold says it’s ‘surreal’ to have a suburban Sydney oval renamed in his honour. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Socceroos coach Graham Arnold has been recognised with the renaming of a suburban Sydney oval in his honour.

The Sylvania field previously called Canberra Road Oval will now be known as Graham Arnold Oval in recognition of the national coach’s football career and achievements.

The venue is home to Gwawley Bay Football Club, where Arnold started his career as a four-year-old.

Arnold’s parents Barry and Fay, as well as his brother Colin, all served as volunteers at the club, making the renaming even more significant for the 60-year-old Socceroos mentor.

Socceroos coach Graham Arnold’s contribution to football in Australia has been recognised with the renaming of an oval in his honour. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images

“This is a special place for the Arnolds,” Graham said.

“I’ve always said that Gwawley Bay Football Club was our second family. Mum and Dad were heavily involved with the club and many of the earliest memories of my childhood were here at this oval.

“This is where I grew up and developed my love for football, a place where I made lifelong friendships that have been so pivotal in both my playing and coaching career.

“To see a place so significant to my family now named after me is a little bit surreal. I know my parents, who both loved being part of this club, would be so proud.

“I’m very grateful to everyone involved in renaming this oval and look forward to young people from across the Sutherland Shire enjoying football here for many years to come.”

Football Australia chief executive officer James Johnson said: “We often speak about the impact of `Arnie’s’ contribution to the landscape of football in Australia both as a player and coach, to have that acknowledged in such a way by his local club is amazing to see.

“A moment like this is representative of the amazing opportunities football can offer and shows young people around the country what’s possible if you dare to dream.

“Once upon a time Arnie was in their shoes, enjoying football with family and friends before it took him on an incredible journey around the world.”

Arnold has coached the Socceroos – who return to action on September 5 in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Bahrain on the Gold Coast – since 2018 and represented the national team as a player in 56 matches.

Originally published as Graham Arnold’s contribution to Australian football recognised with oval renamed in his honour