Success as Women in Football Leadership Program continues to kick goals

Twenty-two participants hand selected from Associations, NPL NSW clubs and referee branches from across the state recently took part in Football Australia’s Women in Football Leadership Program which included a 2-day Workshop held at the Pullman in Sydney Olympic Park.

The 2-day face-to-face workshop which made up week 3 of the 5-week program was facilitated by Ebru Koksal, a global football identity who is a Board of Director for the APL amongst numerous roles throughout the football world.

The workshop was a great opportunity for the participants to network with women who are advancing the game within their footprint.

“We are thrilled to complete the first of what we hope to be many leadership programs for our female football administrators and volunteers with the support of the NSW Government,” said Football NSW’s Legacy Plan Manager Helen Armson.

“The Football Legacy Program allows us to invest in our future female leaders through developing their skills and knowledge whilst building confidence and capacity in management and leadership.”

Football NSW’s Head of Women and Schools Hayley Todd was delighted with how the program has continued to kick goals in the female space.

“The five-week program has brought women together from many areas of football to share their experiences, examine leadership styles, discuss engaging and influencing stakeholders and learn the value of networking.

“A strong bond was established amongst the group, and I am looking forward to fostering that network and seeing them progress their career in football.”

Football Canterbury Board Member and Managing Director at Marrickville FC Georgie Kokokiris stated how much value this particular Workshop displayed across the two-days.

“I have had had the amazing opportunity of spending the two days with some outstanding women in football.

“What starts off as being a little scary, ends with belief and confidence that you are in the right space, along the path meant for you.

“Keep an eye out for these amazing women, football is in a better place with them involved.”

Football Australia’s Women in Football Leadership Program is a 5-week intensive leadership course directed at women currently working in football and those who are looking to work in football. The program looks to develop an individual’s skills and knowledge, whilst building confidence in women to pursue leadership roles and/or take the next step in their career.

The program takes place over 5-weeks, with a mixed delivery mode, incorporating online webinars, in person facilitator led workshops, as well as a self-learning component through electronic course materials. Some of the topics that are covered include psychometric testing, sports governance, and conflict management.

The program is fully funded by the NSW Football Legacy fund thanks to the NSW Government.

The NSW Football Legacy Fund will see multiple programs being conducted in the next 18 months. Football Australia are set to roll out the program nationally.