FOOTBALL West CEO James Curtis says the “beautiful game” is in rude health in WA and the World Cup will only add to the momentum.

“Our registered players are at an all-time high this year,” he says.

“Interest in football always rises when a World Cup is on and especially as the Socceroos are now regular qualifiers.

“Nothing can match World Cup fever in a country and Australia is no different.

“And with Trent Sainsbury, Josh Risdon and Brad Jones in the squad, West Australians will identify with three players who have come through the system here. Sainsbury was immense against France and coach Bert van Marwijk hailed Risdon’s display.

“But the growth is wider than the men’s national team.

“In March we had the Matildas play in Perth and that was a great occasion. Sam Kerr, arguably the best women’s player in the world, hails from WA and it was fantastic to see how she has caught the public’s imagination.

“We are also part of the bid to bring the 2023 Women’s World Cup to Australia. And figures released by the Australian Sports Commission show football is by far the most popular team sport played by adults and children in the country.

“The interest is there and the World Cup adds to the momentum.”