Football Coaches Australia have announced, in partnership with the PFA that members of the PFA’s Past Players Program will have their joining fee for the FCA waived which will ensure that developing coaches will have access to resources and development for coaching.
Past players can benefit from the FCAXV Essential Skills program in addition to PD programs which attracts FA Licence CPD points being the national psychology service and financial guidance.
Contracts and independent grievance procedures for coaches are presently being discussed with the governing body, Football Australia.
FCA’s Executive Committee member and former player Terry McFlynn, said:
“There is a common purpose across the PFA and the FCA, with many of our members being former players occupying or pursuing opportunities within coaching in Australia.
“Given this common ground, and our shared desire to support those entering the next phase of their lives, it is a natural fit for us to work together to support the next generation of Australian coaches, alongside the PFA.”
Co-Chief Executive of the PFA, Beau Busch said:
“There is one certainty in our members’ lives and careers; that their playing days will eventually come to an end. Our responsibility is to ensure they are not only supported during their careers but have developed adequate skills in areas of interest and that there are opportunities available to them after they hang up the boots.
“We know that transitioning into any new field or profession is challenging so having a partnership with the FCA ensures that our past players know they will be supported by both the PFA and the FCA if they choose to embark on a career in coaching.”
This working relationship between both the PFA and FCA demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that players will be supported following the conclusion of their playing careers including the following:
- collaborating on professional development opportunities for elite players and coaches at all levels of the game from grassroots to professional competitions;
- seeking solutions to challenges and barriers to football through collaboration and consultation;
- working with stakeholders to protect children and youth footballers within an elite sporting environment; and
- ensuring that elite training environments across the country provide a positive experience and give due regard to the holistic development of coaches of players.
