2025 Football NSW Goalkeeping Coaching Conference Sets a New Benchmark for Australia
More than 120 goalkeeper coaches from across NSW and interstate converged on Valentine Sports Park for the inaugural 2025 Football NSW Goalkeeping Coaching Conference, the first event of its kind in Australia and a milestone moment for the nation’s goalkeeper development pathway.
Delivered through an intensive one-day program, the conference featured theory and field sessions led by some of Australia’s most respected goalkeeping experts. National Team staff Tony Franken, Leeanne Hall, and David Plowright provided in-depth tactical and technical insights, showcasing the philosophies and methodologies used within elite international environments.
Adding to the event’s impact were special guest appearances from accomplished professional goalkeepers Liam Reddy, Mitch Langerak, Lydia Williams, and Trudy Simmons, who offered candid reflections on their careers, training habits, and the evolving demands of the modern game. Their player-driven perspectives strongly resonated with coaches eager to better understand the realities of high-performance goalkeeping.
The conference arrives at a pivotal time for goalkeeper development in NSW, following Football NSW’s recent appointment of Bryce Deaton as the organisation’s first full-time Goalkeeper Development Manager, a significant investment aimed at strengthening both coach and player pathways across the state.
“This conference marks the beginning of a new chapter for goalkeeper development in NSW,” Deaton said.
“Seeing more than 120 passionate goalkeeper coaches in one place reinforces how strong our community is.
“Our focus now is to build consistent pathways, elevate coach education, and support goalkeepers of all ages to reach their potential. This event is just the start.”
Football NSW Coach Education Manager Chris Adams praised the high level of collaboration and engagement on display.
“The energy across the day was outstanding,” Adams said.
“Bringing together national staff, professional players, and grassroots coaches created a powerful learning environment. Goalkeeper coaches are a vital part of our system, and we’re committed to expanding this event in 2026 to further strengthen our network.”
With overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants and presenters, Football NSW has already begun planning an even larger and more comprehensive Goalkeeping Coaching Conference for 2026 cementing the event as a future flagship for goalkeeper coach education in Australia.
