CEO search underway at Football South Coast as Ann-Marie Balliana steps down
Balliana is praised for growing female participation.
After 14 years leading the region’s peak football body, Ann-Marie Balliana has resigned as Chief Executive Officer of Football South Coast.
Football South Coast confirmed Ms Balliana’s resignation today, triggering a recruitment process for a new CEO.
Ms Balliana has been involved in local football for close to 20 years, including earlier roles as Treasurer of the Illawarra Junior Football Association and as a board member of Football South Coast.
As CEO, she oversaw major changes to strengthen the association while supporting clubs, volunteers, and players. These efforts were recognised in 2025 when Football South Coast was named Football NSW Association of the Year.
A key focus of her leadership was increasing participation, particularly among women and girls in football. During her tenure, Football South Coast introduced a number of all-female competitions and expanded opportunities across junior, masters and premier league levels.
She also supported the growth of summer football and five-a-side competitions, junior development programs and come-and-try initiatives, helping bring new players into the game.
Ms Balliana played a significant role in making football more accessible across the region, with ongoing support for Walking Football and the FSC White Knights in partnership with The Disability Trust.
Her time as CEO also included key infrastructure milestones, including securing the Illawarra’s first synthetic football pitch and establishing a permanent home for Football South Coast at Ian McLennan Park.
Football South Coast Chair Martin Rowney said Ms Balliana had been a strong advocate for the game.
“Football South Coast has thrived during Ann-Marie’s time as CEO, thanks to her leadership and commitment to the sport,” he said.
Ms Balliana said it had been a privilege to work with the football community.
“Football has been a big part of my life,” she said. “I’m grateful to have worked alongside clubs, volunteers and staff to deliver important projects and inclusive programs that help the game grow.”
She will take on the role of General Manager at Our Community Project, based in Port Kembla.
Football South Coast is advertising for a new CEO here.
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