Close to 40 people attended the ceremony at Morshead Park on Saturday morning, which saw the ribbon cut by Ballarat City mayor John Philips and federal Senator Michael Ronaldson.

“Having had Bahrain train here and play a friendly match against another international team, we now know that we can provide football to the world stage and at the national level,” 

Cr Philips said.

“In years to come we may even see first-class footballers emerging from the facility.”

The facility has previously held crowds of up to 2000, but Cr Philips believes the BRSF is capable of holding up to 5000 spectators.

BRSF advisory committee chairman and Ballarat City councillor Des Hudson said the facility had placed Ballarat on the world soccer stage.

“The quality of the surface has been rated very highly by national and international teams and our local clubs will benefit from this,” he said. 

Cr Hudson said he expected the opening of the facility to boost numbers to the Ballarat District Soccer Association, which has 1800 registered players.

“When people can play on good surfaces...the sport tends to prosper,” he said.

 “Whether for young boys or girls, Ballarat is ready to host quality soccer for everyone to enjoy.”