When their former clubhouse was razed in an arson attack in 2005, Ranui Swanson soccer and Ranui Bears softball clubs turned to the community for help with Waitakere City Council, the Waitakere Licensing Trusts and the ASB Community Trust among the $2.6 million facility's sponsors.

The clubrooms will include a juniors' lounge, medical and changing rooms, tuck shop, referees/umpire room and expansive viewing windows that look out over the playing fields.

Construction is expected to be completed late 2010. As part of the upgrade the Starling Park number 1 pitch is also undergoing extensive renovation.

Ranui Swanson player Mason Fletcher assists Waitakere City Mayor in the turning of the first sod.


Ranui Swanson players at the ceremony to launch their new clubrooms at Starling Park (l to r): Mason Fletcher, Julian Vea, Fabian Vea, Aaron Fletcher (with cap), Stacey Smith, Joel Allen, Taylor Hayes, Summer Smith and Nathan Lobo.


Ranui Swanson players Summer Smith, Joel Allen, Julian Vea, Taylor Hayes and Nathan Lobo check out the model of their new clubrooms at Starling Park.

Photos by Benedict Collins (Waitakere City Council Public Affairs)