For many decades, Bankstown Sports has helped grow the game of football (soccer) and has been the home for local administrators, coaches and managers, to discuss and facilitate the sport and its programs.  

The Club recently provided ClubGRANTS to the Bankstown District Amateur Football Association (BDAFA) to alleviate the economic and accessibility challenges surrounding qualified junior coaches in the local area, by fully funding a single-day Level 4 Foundations Course for 40 local parents, players and officials.  

The course mixes theory and practice, assisting all aspiring coaches to gain the necessary tools to provide genuine pathways for their development. The day is an invaluable learning experience for all participants who are looking to improve their own skills and capacity, all while absorbing knowledge to navigate the growing climate of junior sport.  

The program covers many facets of the game, focusing on improved skill development, providing a positive learning environment, role modelling and mentoring as well as acknowledging the participant’s role in guiding youth players to higher honours.  

“In the past, several issues have made it difficult for teams to have qualified junior coaches such as cost, time commitment and more importantly, access to affordable courses” says General Manager of the Association, Leanne Millar.   

“The ClubGRANTS provided by Bankstown Sports has reduced the barriers to completing the course and will see an improvement in youth technical skills and tactical understanding, while ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.” 

With over 700 participants of the Bankstown Sports’ Sports Network honing their craft in three associated football clubs, the investment into the development program will have a lasting effect on the quality and sustainability of the local clubs and their coaching supplies.