An exciting new partnership between the QBE Sydney Swans Academy and both AFL North Coast and AFL North West will provide greater opportunities for local players to make it to the big time.
The partnership will see the North West, North Coast Force, and Northern Heat rep programs co-branded with the Swans Academy, allowing a greater number of development opportunities for talented and committed players. This partnership will provide a clear process for high performing players in the region to be selected to attend Sydney metro sessions for potential selection in higher level Swans Academy programs.
Local representative coaches will have access to coaching programs and resources that have been developed by the Sydney Swans AFL personnel for use in the delivery of the representative programs.
Chris Smith, Head of the QBE Sydney Swans Academy, is thrilled by the prospect of unearthing talent in Northern NSW.
“It’s an exciting development for the Swans Academy,” Smith said.
“This allows us a broader reach into regions that have talented juniors across numerous sports. Those juniors now have an opportunity to showcase their talent, as well as their commitment and focus towards being the best AFL player they can be.
“Top performing players will now have a clear pathway towards Northern Heat selection, Academy, and ultimately, the National Championships.”
Paul Taylor, Community Football Manager, said that the partnership is a real boost for the local representative programs.
“Both North West and North Coast will field teams in the Under 13, Under 15, Under 17, and Youth Girls age groups, and all of these players will now be under the tutelage of Sydney Swans supported coaches who can recommend them for further opportunities,” Taylor said.
“The North Coast has had a local Swans Academy program for many years where the participant numbers were limited. There are now significantly more opportunities for players to be identified and to proceed along the pathway.
“The North West has never had a structured opportunity like this before for players to go further in the game. With Junior club footy moving to Sundays, a Youth Girls competition starting, and now a pathway to the Sydney Swans, there’s never been a better chance to find the next Sam Naismith!”
Trials for the North West representative teams and North Coast Force will be staged in March, with nominations to be called for in the coming weeks. Players selected in the programs will have the chance to compete at carnivals during the footy season.
An info session will be held for individuals interested in coaching or team management roles on Monday 7 February. Anyone interested in attending that session, click here for details.
