We were one of the first football clubs formed in Sydney and competed in the first-ever New South Wales State League as Canterbury FC; the club has also been known as Canterbury-Marrickville Olympic and West Sydney Berries; the "Berry" part of the name derives from Canter-"bury." Since that time, the club has enjoyed some years of success and also painful years of premiership droughts and grand final losses. The club played in the 1986 season of the National Soccer League.
Youth development
My dream for our young players is simple: to help them fall in love with the game and grow into confident, skilled athletes. Our youth program is like a garden where we plant seeds of talent and nurture them with care.
At our club, we're not just about kicking balls and scoring goals. We're all about teaching important life lessons through sport—like teamwork, respect, and determination. We want our young players to not only shine on the field but also grow into good people off the field.
I see our youth teams as the heart of our club. They're where the magic starts, where dreams are born. And it's not just about today's wins; it's about building a bright future for our club. I want every kid who pulls on our jersey to feel like they're part of something special, to know that they're valued and supported every step of the way.
In the end, it's not just about winning games—it's about creating memories, friendships, and a love for the game that lasts a lifetime. Together, we're building more than just a football club; we're building a community where every player can thrive and reach their full potential.
Andrew.
Club Captin
I'm passionate about the role our club plays in our community. To me, the club isn't just a place where people come to play soccer—it's a hub, a gathering spot, a second home for many.
Our club is like a big family, made up of players, coaches, parents, volunteers, and supporters from all walks of life. It's a place where friendships are formed, bonds are strengthened, and memories are made. Whether it's cheering on our teams from the sidelines, volunteering at events, or simply sharing a laugh over a post-match sausage sizzle, everyone plays a part in creating the vibrant atmosphere that makes our club special.
But it's not just about what happens on the pitch. Our club is deeply committed to giving back to the community that supports us. We run initiatives to promote inclusion and diversity, provide opportunities for disadvantaged youth to get involved in sport, and partner with local schools and organizations to make soccer accessible to everyone.
At the heart of it all is a shared love for the game and a desire to make a positive impact, both on and off the field. Together, we're more than just a football club—we're a force for good in our community, bringing people together, inspiring the next generation, and making a difference one goal at a time.
First Grade
I'm proud to say that despite facing some challenges, we've built a formidable team ready to take on the season ahead. Yes, we may have lost a few players, but that's just part of the game. What matters most is how we respond, and I couldn't be more impressed with the dedication and talent of the players who have stepped up to fill those gaps.
This season, we've focused on building a cohesive unit—players who not only have individual skills but also understand the value of teamwork and camaraderie. We've worked tirelessly on the training ground, honing our tactics, improving our fitness, and strengthening our mental resilience.
I have full confidence that this group of players has what it takes to compete at the highest level. They've shown tremendous commitment and determination, and their hunger for success is palpable. With each game, I see us getting stronger, more cohesive, and more confident in our abilities.
While the competition will undoubtedly be tough, I firmly believe that we have the quality and the depth to finish in the top three this year. Our sights are set high, and we're ready to take on any challenge that comes our way.
Together, as a united team and with the unwavering support of our fans, I have no doubt that we'll achieve great things this season. Watch out, because the Canterbury Bankstown Berries are ready to make their mark on the league!