Talk Sport with Mark Christie, chief executive, Waikato Bay of Plenty Football.
We are now past the halfway point of the 2015 season and having been in this job for only six months, it is clear to me that football is now a year-round, rather than seasonal, proposition.
It's been a few weeks since the 2015 Fifa U-20 World Cup ended. It was exceptional. Our region actively supported the games played at Hamilton's Waikato Stadium. Hopefully, you saw a game or two, for the quality was high and the atmosphere superb.
Our task now is to ensure we build on the interest and momentum gained from the event. It is important the tournament leaves a lasting legacy in New Zealand. Through playing and coaching opportunities, improved equipment and infrastructure, I believe we can do it.
Fair play is a hot topic in many sports, and football has had its challenges in this area. WaiBOP is working with the Regional Sports Trusts on strategies to improve sideline behaviour and reduce referee abuse.