Football West News
Almost 240 coaches attended the 2026 Football West State Coaching Conference at the Sam Kerr Football Centre.
The annual conference was held on Saturday, with the program repeated on Sunday. It consisted of both theory and practical sessions.
The presenters included:
Football Australia Coaching Instructor CHRIS ADAMS
Chris was the key speaker who addressed:
- How to use training activities effectively
- Specific aspects of coach education
- Reaccreditation updates
Chris also put on two practical model sessions focusing on finishing, using Football West Academy Boys on the Saturday and Girls on Sunday
Football Australia Academy Goalkeeper Coach and Coach Education Tutor MICHELE MESTIERI
Michele ran practical sessions on specific aspects of goalkeeping. He also used the Academy Boys keepers on Saturday and Academy Girls keepers on Sunday
Young Matildas Sport Scientist and Perth RedStar NPL Women’s Head Coach ADAM KIRK
Adam spoke about making every contact count and shared insight from the Young Matildas program.
The Coaching Lab Founder JACK ROLFE
Jack concentrated on bringing a different approach to coaching, which includes asking the right questions.
ECU Lecturer and Coach Education Tutor MARK SCANLAN
Mark’s presentation looked at how goals are scored in international football. This was a study based on the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Football West Football Development Manager GARETH NAVEN
Gareth gave a presentation on how football should look in Western Australia going forward, with a focus on player development. Future Football in WA evaluated rethinking the playing format, giving every player the right game at the right stage of their development with the right coaching environment.
Football West Coach Development Officer Cris Ola organised this year’s State Coaching Conference.
He said: “Football West would like to thank all the presenters who helped us deliver a varied and informative couple of days. They all encouraged an interactive approach and we were delighted that the coaches who attended provided plenty of input.
“We also appreciate the coaches taking time out of their weekend to attend the conference. Hopefully they took a lot from it which can only be good for the future of football in Western Australia.
“I also want to acknowledge Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell and General Manager – Football David Lewis who spoke to open the two days.”
