JDL Coach Development Program successfully launches
Over the past three months, Football NSW has successfully begun the rollout of the Junior Development League (JDL) Coach Development Program.
Since launching, more than 80 coaches have completed the program across both Mixed JDL and Girls JDL, with courses being delivered at Valentine Sports Park, Charles Bean Oval, Blacktown Football Park and Sutherland Shire Football Association thus far.
Designed over an eight-month period with a pilot course delivered in October, the course was developed to support coaches and technical staff working within the JDL. The design team was led by Football NSW Coach Development Manager Chris Adams and included Football NSW Player Development Manager – Juniors, Neil Mann, in addition to Football NSW Technical Advisors, Gareth Long and Kevin Grima.
While still in its infancy, the Program has received positive feedback around the targeted content design specific to JDL age groups, providing key takeaways for coaches to implement within their own Club environments.
“The engagement of those in attendance has been highly rewarding,” said Football NSW Player Development Manager – Juniors, Neil Mann.
“We look forward to welcoming those that have already registered for a 2025 course as we continue to support and develop the coaches and clubs in this crucial phase of developing both the person and the player.”
Troy Spink, Technical Director of the Illawarra Stingrays, was impressed with the best practice methods presented in the program.
“The course delivered a clear direction for football development and coaching methods for the JDL age groups”, he said.
“After self-reflection, I am going to be more in-tune with my players’ needs and their strengths to provide a more child-centric approach to the learning experience.”
Head of JDL for the Sutherland Sharks, James Webb, praised the benefits the program provided for attendees.
“There are so many great takeaways to implement back in everyone’s respective environments,” he said.
“Some key messaging around parent engagement and differentiation of learning were personal highlights, delivered by highly skilled and knowledgeable coach educators. (It is) a must for coaches working with young children!”
Programs have already been locked in for 2025, with registrations available via the below registration links.
With places limited, interested coaches are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment.
COURSES
JDL Coach Development Program #3
Saturday, 8th & Sunday, 9th February
9am-5pm
Valentine Sports Park
REGISTER NOW
JDL Coach Development Program #4
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th February
9am-5pm
Valentine Sports Park
REGISTER NOW
JDL Coach Development Program #5
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd February
9am-5pm
Valentine Sports Park
REGISTER NOW
JDL Coach Development Program #6
Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd March
9am-5pm
Valentine Sports Park
REGISTER NOW
For more information about the JDL Coach Development Program, visit the dedicated Football NSW webpage.
