Findings from a $140,000 PhD research scholarship, funded by the Johnny Warren Football Foundation, have called for stronger support and recognition of grassroots football across Australia.

The foundation was originally established by the NSW Government in 2003 following a proposal by football legend Johnny Warren to then-premier Bob Carr outlined a need to develop a NSW Football Foundation and Academy. 

After Johnny’s passing in 2004, his nephew Jamie Warren, who also owns the Jamberoo Pub, took over as Executive Chair and in 2018, the foundation funded a major football research scholarship at the University of Sydney, valued at $140,000.

“The foundation has recently been focused on continuing John's broader legacy,” said Jamie.

“We saw research as a way to contribute to the future of the game, particularly because there’s so little academic work being done on football in Australia.”

The recipient of the scholarship, Dr Donna Denyer, spent six years conducting in-depth research into the relationship between community football and the broader Australian football landscape. Her findings were released in November 2024.

Johnny Warren playing football for Australia. Photo: Jamie Warren

Dr Denyer’s research aimed to explore how grassroots football contributes to shaping the national football network. Her thesis highlighted the need for governing bodies to go beyond a market-driven approach and recognise the social, cultural, and community contributions made by local clubs and volunteers.

“The main part of the research is trying to connect grassroots football to the professional game,” said Jamie.

“Donna conducted 34 interviews, analysed 91 key documents and 129 media articles, and uncovered key themes including the need for greater engagement between professional and community football, improving access and affordability, and celebrating the cultural diversity of the sport.”

The findings also emphasised the need for more flexible formats and inclusive pathways to encourage broader participation - all starting at the base level.

“These are the kinds of things that can and should be strengthened at the grassroots level. They create a ripple effect that benefits the entire football ecosystem,” Jamie said.

The foundation is now reviewing Dr Denyer’s findings to decide on next steps.

“We’re weighing it all up and discussing what actions to take next,” said Jamie. “We’re still shaping what the next phase of the foundation will look like.”

Jamie remains optimistic about the sport’s future in Australia.

“In many ways, football is in a great place. Participation is strong, especially among girls. The Matildas are selling out stadiums, which was unheard of a decade ago.

Johnny Warren as a young boy. Photo: Jamie Warren

Since John passed, we’ve seen growth not only in players but in the professionalism of club administrators and coach education. We’re qualifying and performing in the men's and women’s World Cups - the game is strong.”

Jamie says Johnny’s legacy continues to drive both him and the foundation.

“John was all heart when it came to football. His passion inspires everything we do.”

A quote from Johnny, included in Dr Denyer’s thesis, sums up the spirit of the foundation:

“Football binds people outside the football pitch … Membership to the football family does not depend on ability but rather on devotion and camaraderie … Football people, real football people, will do anything anytime for other football people. That is community at work …”

Jamie also expressed gratitude to the local community who’ve supported the Jamberoo-based foundation over the years.

“We’ve had so much help locally, and I’d really like to thank everyone who’s supported us and John’s legacy.”