Channel 7 assists in Football NSW Schools Clinics
Promoting football in primary schools is a high priority for Football NSW, and again in partnership with Channel 7, Football NSW will deliver a program of football clinics in 2015.
15 schools took part in the ‘7 News Schools Program’ last year, with seven schools already registered for 2015 to date. The football clinics are run from Term 1 to Term 4, depending on the school’s availability.
Qualified Football NSW coaches facilitate the program, which gives school children the opportunity to embrace the world game. Children are put through a series of planned activities designed to enhance their skills as well as improve coordination, fitness and enjoyment of the game of football.
Schools Game Development Officer Renee Rollason is impressed with registration numbers so far but wants to offer the opportunity to more schools.
“1650 kids participated last year and from registrations so far in 2015 we’re currently on track.
“We’d love to get out to as many schools as we can this year.”
Rollason believes the initiative is important for all primary school-goers, not just those that play the game.
“Going into schools you get kids who are already involved and then you get kids who have never played before.
“Our aim is to target those who haven’t played before and help them get involved with their local clubs.”
Rollason sees the positive impact the football clinics have on the students that take part.
“Football is popular with students throughout schools, they enjoy all the activities and skills they participate in.”
Students receive a drink bottle at the end of the visit.
Rollason believes that the ‘Champions of the West Grant’ – on offer by the Daily Telegraph in conjunction with sponsor Harvey Norman to assist sport for education – would play a vital role in expanding the clinics as well as increasing the number of school visits.
“It would allow Football NSW to facilitate 20 more schools in Western Sydney.
“Each clinic costs around $500 (for coaches and travel), so any financial assistance will benefit schools directly”
-By Nikola Pozder
