Football NSW Announces 2026 First Nations Scholarship Recipients
Football NSW has announced the recipients of its 2026 First Nations Scholarships, reinforcing its commitment to increasing participation, representation, and opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across all areas of the game.
The scholarship program plays an important role in supporting First Nations participants by reducing financial and structural barriers, while also creating clearer development pathways within football.
Developed and assessed in collaboration with the Football NSW Indigenous Advisory Group, the initiative continues to grow in impact each year.
Co-Chair of the Indigenous Advisory Group, Bianca Dufty, highlighted the significance of the program in driving meaningful, long-term change.
“The calible of scholarships this year was incredible. To see and hear about the achievements of young Aboriginal footballers, on and off the pitch, is nothing short of inspiring.
“Their dedication to football and the desire to be role models for younger Aboriginal footballers in their communities is to be celebrated. It’s been a privilege for the Indigenous Advisory Group and Football NSW to be able to support the successful scholarship recipients.
“The IAG look forward to following each of these deadly footballers on their football journey. I’m confident we will see some of these talented footballers in the A-League and national teams in the future.”
The 2026 scholarships have been awarded to a group of emerging players from both metropolitan and regional areas, with First Nations coaching scholarships set to be introduced in the next phase of the program, further expanding opportunities across the football pathway.
The First Nations Scholarships aim to:
- Reduce barriers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants within elite and development pathways
- Increase access to high-quality development opportunities across playing, coaching, and officiating
- Identify and support the next generation of First Nations football participants
- Recognise emerging talent beyond traditional pathways
- Create meaningful opportunities for individuals who may otherwise face limited access to the game
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Metro:
- Cassidee Fernando – Apia
- Cydnee Avery – Western Sydney Wanderers
- Tikka Jeffery – Central Coast Mariners Academy
- Jack Flynn – NWS Spirit
- Max Wade – Inter Lions
Country:
- Georgia Dowell – Central West Football Club
- Prydi Bisson – Inter Lions FC
- Che Stinson Saavedra – Southern Phoenix Inc FC
- Kobe Seymour – Central West Football Club
- Noah Hyde – Central West Football Club
Football NSW remains committed to working alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to ensure the game is welcoming, inclusive, and reflective of the diverse communities it represents.
With continued collaboration and targeted initiatives such as the First Nations Scholarships, the organisation is building stronger, more accessible pathways for future generations to thrive in football.
