Christchurch United Seek to Unite South Island Behind OFC Pro League Entry

 

Christchurch United plan to position themselves as a team for the entire South Island as they prepare to compete in the inaugural OFC Professional League. According to Friends of Football, the club hopes its entry will benefit not only Christchurch but also clubs across the island by creating new pathways for players, coaches and administrators.

General manager and first-team coach Ryan Edwards told NewstalkZB: “The whole purpose of this league is to grow professional football in areas that don’t have it. This is an island of 1.2 million people, and there’s no professional football here.”

Edwards said he had already held discussions with South Island clubs via Zoom, asking for their input and stressing collaboration rather than imposition. He noted that the club’s successful bid emphasized its potential role as a South Island team, not just a Christchurch one. “Our main pitch was collaborating with the South Island and creating a South Island team that unites the whole of the region together, and a team that collaborates with the whole of the Oceania region as well,” he explained.

Highlighting the importance of visibility, Edwards added: “If we have a professional team here in the South Island, with kids from around the South Island seeing the players play and being exposed to that, then their belief grows because it’s attainable for them.”

The club has already begun working regionally, recently forming a partnership with the Vanuatu Football Federation. Edwards underlined that Christchurch United’s journey to professional football has taken 11 years, but the next step comes quickly: “A lot to be done; a short timeframe. It’s going to be a fun journey.”

Christchurch United will compete in the OFC Professional League from January to May 2026, while continuing to field a side in the New Zealand National League.

How is Christchurch United planning to represent the South Island in the OFC Pro League?

By collaborating with regional clubs, offering pathways for young players, and branding themselves as a team for the entire South Island.

Why is this significant for New Zealand football?

The South Island has 1.2 million people but no professional football team until now, making Christchurch United’s entry a major development.

What partnerships has Christchurch United already formed?

Christchurch United has partnered with the Vanuatu Football Federation, strengthening its ties within Oceania ahead of the league’s launch.