Mat Fox, Craig Soper and Lee Sterrey have each been appointed as Northern NSW Football(NNSWF) Technical Advisors, completing an extensive project to establish an effective talent development structure throughout the region.
Mat has been appointed in the role of SAP Technical Advisor (Boys) focusing on clubs involved in the Junior Development League (JDL), Craig in the role of SAP and Youth Technical Advisor (Girls) focusing on clubs involved in the JDL and Womens Premier League (WPL) Youth and Lee in the role of Youth Technical Advisor (Boys) focusing on clubs involved primarily in the National Premier League Youth competition.
This announcement follows the appointment of former Newcastle Jets Captain, Kew Jaliens as Youth Technical Director in partnership with the Newcastle Jets, and the appointment of Youth Advisor James Rankine on the Far North Coast.
Northern NSW Football Head of Football Development Peter Haynes said these appointments will increase the capacity for NNSWF to assist and support clubs who participate within the Talented Player Pathway to enhance their programs.
“The three new Advisors are all familiar with the football landscape in the region and are exceptionally experienced and passionate about supporting local clubs develop talented players.
Haynes said, extensive consultation and time has been invested in developing a structure which supports and enhances the unique landscape in which football operates within northern NSW.
“We are excited to work alongside the Newcastle Jets to align and integrate our programs for talented players. having this integration with our local A-League/W-League club in the youth development space is invaluable to a cohesive pathway and to maximise talented players potential.
“Each Advisor will work closely with Jaliens and Premier Club Technical Directors to formally assess each club’s development programs against assessment criteria developed in consultation with Football Australia and other Member Federations.
“The criteria range from individual player capabilities, match day management, training preparation through to coach behaviours.
“Following each assessment, action points will be provided to club TDS on how to evolve programs. The aim is to produce high quality learning environments for players that will eventually result in more home-grown representative players within A-League, W-League and National teams.
Haynes continued, stating that the first point of call for the team has been to develop a comprehensive club visitation schedule for the 2021 Season.
“We will proactively visit each club multiple times throughout the season at training session and on match days.
“Most importantly, follow-up visits, subsequent assessments, feedback and support will be provided to all clubs through their TD.
Clubs competing in the Northern NSW Football Premier Competitions will be contacted in coming weeks surrounding scheduled visits.
Northern NSW Football’s Talent Development Team can be contacted through Northern NSW Football Programs Officer Alex Lowe alowe@northernnswfootball.com.au
