Coaches Unite for a Landmark 2025 Football NSW Coaching Conference at Valentine Sports Park
It was another weekend to remember at Valentine Sports Park, the home of Football NSW, as more than 1,000 coaches from across New South Wales and interstate came together for the sold-out 2025 Football NSW Coaching Conference.
Over two action-packed days, the event once again reinforced its standing as Australia’s largest coaching conference, uniting coaches from grassroots to elite levels in a shared commitment to learning, collaboration, and development.
Attendees were treated to a diverse line-up of internationally acclaimed presenters alongside some of Australia’s most respected coaching professionals that included Tony Vidmar, U23 Olyroos Coach, Michael Cooper, U17 Junior Matildas Coach, Alex Epakis, U20 Young Matildas Coach, Catherine Cannuli, Australian Youth National Team Assistant Coach.
The 2025 edition also featured special guests from overseas including Kimura Yasuhiko, Director of Coach Education at the Japanese Football Association; Damir Dugandzic, Technical Head of the DFB Talent Development Program at the German Football Association; Ian Buckman, Academy Manager at Brighton & Hove Albion FC; Amy Price, Women’s National Coach Developer at the English Football Association; and Silvia Piccini, Assistant Coach of Italy’s U17 Women’s National Team.
Across the two days, these world-class speakers delivered a series of engaging sessions that explored modern coaching philosophies, player development, and the evolving global game. Practical on-pitch demonstrations complemented in-depth classroom workshops, creating a fully interactive learning experience for all attendees.
Among the many highlights of the weekend was a special moment honouring former Matildas Head Coach Tom Sermanni, who was recognised for his outstanding contribution to women’s football and his enduring impact on the sport in Australia. His presence inspired coaches of all levels, reinforcing the importance of leadership, education, and innovation within football.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Football NSW Coach Development Manager Chris Adams was delighted with how the two-day conference unfolded.
“The 2025 Football NSW Coaching Conference showcased the commitment that Football NSW has towards coach education once again.
“To see over a thousand coaches from across NSW and other states come together to learn, share, and grow is truly inspiring.
“This event isn’t just for elite coaches; it’s for everyone who loves football and wants to make a difference at every level of the game.”
A major highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Les Scheinflug Medal, the most prestigious award in Football NSW’s annual coaching calendar. The award recognises individuals who have made an exceptional and lasting contribution to coaching in New South Wales.
In 2025, the honour was bestowed upon Jim Fraser, one of Australian football’s most respected figures, a former Socceroo, legendary goalkeeper, and lifelong mentor. Fraser’s remarkable career has spanned decades of service to the game, influencing generations of goalkeepers and coaches alike. His tireless commitment to developing goalkeeping talent across Australia has left an indelible mark on the sport, making him a fitting and celebrated recipient of the award.
2025 Coaching Conference Award Winners
Les Scheinflug Medal Winner
Jim Fraser
JDL Male Coach of the Year
Joe Jarmey (Eastern Suburbs Football Association)
JDL Female Coach of the Year
Mikaela Molina (Marconi Stallions)
Youth League Female Coach of the Year
Libby Loveday (South Coast Flame)
Youth League Male Coach of the Year
Kyle Devine (North West Sydney Spirit)
Regional Male Coach of the Year
Shane Milne (Lithgow District Football Association)
Regional Female Coach of the Year
Katelyn Worldon (Football Wagga Wagga)
Grassroots Female Coach of the Year
Tara O’Connell (Football Canterbury)
Grassroots Male Coach of the Year
Graeme Hughes (Macarthur Football Association)
Football NSW congratulates all award recipients for their outstanding dedication and contribution to the game. Each continues to play a vital role in strengthening football across the state, from community clubs to elite programs.
As the 2025 Coaching Conference concluded, there was a strong sense of pride and optimism among all involved.
The weekend once again highlighted Football NSW’s unwavering commitment to coach education and the ongoing development of the game across all levels setting the stage for an even bigger and better event in 2026.
