Academy providing elite opportunities for Surf Coast footballers

A POPULAR soccer academy on the Surf Coast is enjoying strong numbers in 2022 with the new year right around the corner.

The Surf Coast FC Development Academy is off to a strong start to conclude 2022 under the leadership of coaching director Matt Betts.

The Development Academy, serving club players with at least one to two years of playing experience, caters to both boys and girls aged nine to 16 years in separate 60-minute sessions each week.

“This year we have seen more than 200 of our players participate in the development academy which is an excellent number given we only have about 300 eligible young players in total,” Betts said.

Academy sessions are based on the National Football Curriculum, but the club’s programming is also influenced by some of the best coaching methodologies from around the world, keeping things interesting for players.

“The national coaching curriculum produced for players in Australia is very good but from time to time it’s good to adopt coaching practices and techniques from other countries and clubs that focus on developing ball mastery skills and genuine game sense,” Betts said.

“There is no one way to learn how to play football, hence why we offer a diversified practice base to our players, ensuring they still enjoy the game for what it is whilst challenging the more competent players.”

Players are presented with a number of opportunities to engage with the club’s program, such as 14-year-old Joy Im using the academy to try her hand at coaching for Surf Coast FC this past year.

“Coaching has been a really amazing experience and something I’ve been wanting to do for a very long time,” she said.

“Matt is always willing to give back to our football community.

“His knowledge is extraordinary, and he gives everyone an opportunity to learn without ever saying no. He is so happy to share his knowledge of The game.

“As a player, it is a real blessing to have a someone with so much capability coaching at a community club.”

Pre-season is expected to kick off early next year at Surf Coast FC with the academy to resume at the start of Term 1.