President

Chris McGeachan is President of Home Ground Hub and a former police officer who believes in early intervention over punishment. He works to create positive role models, safe programs and stronger pathways for young people before challenges escalate.

Vice President

Peter Firth is Vice President of Home Ground Hub and Facilitator of the Yarra Futsal Network. As founder of Futsal 4 Life, he promotes accessible social futsal that strengthens physical wellbeing, connection and belonging.

Executive Board Member / President of Yarra Futsal Ballers

Phu Nguyen progressed from a participant in Yarra’s public housing programs to President of Yarra Futsal Ballers and an Executive Board Member of Home Ground Hub. He now helps create sport and leadership opportunities for the next generation.

Executive Board Member / President of Fitzroy Lions

Abdul Malik is a respected Yarra mentor and founder of Fitzroy Lions, created to make community soccer accessible for young people unable to afford club fees.

Fitzroy Lions Technical Director

John Sugunananthan arrived in Australia aged 10 after escaping the Sri Lankan Civil War. Shaped by the challenges of settlement and the tragic loss of his mother, he found purpose and resilience through football. John now uses the game to unite migrant and refugee communities, build confidence and help others become their best selves.

Program Coordinator

Femi grew up in the countryside, where limited facilities and transport made accessing organised sport difficult. This experience shaped his belief that every young person deserves the chance to participate. He now helps coordinate Home Ground Hub’s programs, creating accessible sporting opportunities that strengthen confidence, belonging and connection for young people across the community.

Camp Coordinator

A management professional with expertise in sports development, social cohesion, gender equity and facilitation, he brings people together across government, community and sporting organisations. He uses sport to break down barriers, strengthen inclusion and create environments where diverse individuals and communities can connect, collaborate and thrive.

Secretary

Laetitia is the Secretary of Home Ground Hub and an undergraduate student studying Commerce and Law. As Secretary, she supports the organisation’s strategic direction by managing governance, financial management, and day-to-day coordination.

Media Director

Niamh Kearney is a Law and Commerce graduate whose passion for community impact grew through delivering free soccer opportunities for girls. As a Home Ground Hub Board Member and Media Director, she uses storytelling, strategy and entrepreneurship to strengthen the organisation’s voice, promote gender equity and connect more young people with inclusive opportunities through sport.

Community Leader

Growing up in Fitzroy, Manyiel Achol saw the value of Cubbies firsthand and now works to create the same opportunities for the next generation.

Honorary Board Member

Steve Earl has supported young people living in Yarra’s public housing communities for more than 20 years through local organisations, foundations and his business.