Player Wellbeing in Focus at Football NSW Club Capability Workshop
Football NSW has successfully delivered its fifth Club Capability Workshop of the 2026 season, with a strong focus on player wellbeing and retention headlining the latest online session.
The workshop featured a detailed and highly engaging presentation from Dr Matt Whalan, who led an insightful discussion on “Player Wellbeing Programs – Keeping Players Playing.”
The online session attracted more than 80 club representatives from across the state, with strong participation and discussion reflecting the growing importance clubs are placing on player welfare, engagement, and long-term retention.
Dr Whalan brought extensive experience from across all levels of the game, currently serving as the Lead Physiotherapist for the Matildas and Women’s National Teams, as well as the Player Availability & Perform+ Coordinator for Football Australia, where he oversees national athlete monitoring and availability systems.
On the global stage, he also contributes as an expert consultant in injury prevention for FIFA’s Women’s Division, while maintaining active involvement in the NPL NSW system and operating a private practice providing him with a well-rounded, practical perspective across the entire football pathway.
Key topics covered during the workshop included understanding the key factors influencing player wellbeing, retention, and engagement, identifying early signs of player overload, disengagement, and dropout risk, and applying practical strategies to improve wellbeing programs and manage player load within club environments.
Speaking after the session, Dr Whalan said it was encouraging to see strong engagement from coaches and clubs committed to player-centred development.
“Thanks to Football NSW for the opportunity to present and collaborate with coaches who genuinely care about both the person and the player,” Dr Whalan said.
“It’s great to see coaches embracing the important role they play in shaping supportive, player-centred environments where performance, wellbeing and development go hand in hand.”
Football NSW thanked Dr Whalan for sharing his expertise, as well as all club representatives who attended and contributed to the discussion, highlighting the ongoing commitment across the state to strengthening club environments and supporting players at every level of the game.
