By Jorian Gardner
EAMONN Flanagan is a one-eyed football fan, blogger and host of the football program, “The Nearpost”, on 2XX 98.3fm community radio. He has, for years, raised the need for a major football (soccer) team from Australia’s capital city. 
Now, with a bid, lead by high-profile businessman Ivan Slavich and others, a first-class team might just be a possibility – and isn’t Eamonn excited?
“I have helped organise an ambassadors’ program to help support the bid for an A-League team in Canberra,” says Eamonn.
“From Tuggeranong to Belconnen, Cooma to Goulburn we want enthusiastic people to encourage others to sign up to the cause. I know the people of Canberra can do it. We have been able to get a huge amount of support from the community so far.
“I have been a passionate football fan all my life and I just believe that Canberra, which has such a strong football-playing base, should have a major team and it will encourage further interest in football – from our juniors right through to the senior league.
“I have been here 20 years and I am going to be here another 20 years. 
“Football is growing, there are huge increases in television revenue for the events, and the Socceroos and the Matildas have brought the game to more and more people.”
And Eamonn isn’t the only person enthusiastic about getting a team here.  A recent day held at Members One Service Banking in Civic, where fans were encouraged to be some of the first to slap down $200 to become foundation members, got scores of new members and, importantly, cash.
“I also see that football can take Canberra into Asia. It’s more than just the sport – I see Canberra’s name being known all across the region,” says a beaming and passionate Eamonn. “Football can help grow our city in a very positive way.”
Of course, one of the first questions everyone asks: What’s the name? He won’t give anything away, saying: “There are a few names going around, but nothing concrete yet.
“I am totally convinced that we are going to get this team having listened to Ivan Slavich speak and having spoken now with over 100 potential ambassadors, I can tell you, we will get there.”
To learn more go to http://www.ateam4canberra.wordpress.com. “CityNews” is also supporting the push and has enrolled as a foundation member.