WA's round-ball potential a big draw for Football West's new Chief Operating Officer
Football West's new Chief Operating Officer says the “incredible” potential of the round-ball game in Western Australia was a big factor in his decision to swap codes.
Darcy Coffey brings a wealth of experience in sport development, management and administration to the role.
This includes positions with the WA Football Commission and 14 years at Claremont Football Club, with seven as CEO.
Mr Coffey says his strong background in a rival sport should be viewed as an asset.
“So much of the two codes is similar, and the skills needed in terms of infrastructure, participation and talent pathways,” he said.
“Everyone is trying to do the same thing: to try to grow and support their sport, to give stakeholders the best possible experience, and to get as many people engaged in the game as possible.
“We are all seeking the best ways to promote the community and individual benefits you get from participating in large-scale sport. The skills are transferable.
“At grassroots level, I have a really good understanding of how clubs and competitions run, how talent pathways run, and the challenges and opportunities in maximising potential. Running a state league football club, I’m aware of the challenges that come with that.
“The shape of the ball may be different, but the challenges are the same. How do we grow it? How do we service it? How do we give a better experience?”
These challenges are relevant to metro and regional WA, something Mr Coffey identifies with.
“I grew up on a farm in country WA, in Rocky Gully, which is halfway between Mt Barker and Manjimup,” he said. “We just didn’t have exposure to ‘soccer’ football, to be honest. Aussie rules in the winter and cricket in the summer, that was it.
“It was probably moving to Perth for uni that I first watched the sport with any interest. But after finishing my degree, I moved to the UK to teach for a bit in Newcastle. That was where I had my eyes opened to the sheer size of the game. They really do live and breathe it there.
“You then become aware that it is the world game, an international language which can bring all cultures together. No other sport can come close. It is already the biggest team sport in Australia and WA in terms of participation, and because we have such a diverse population in Western Australia, the potential is incredible.”
Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell said: “We are delighted to welcome Darcy to Football West.
“He comes with a terrific reputation and brings great experience and insight from his previous roles in grassroots sport. We look forward to him helping us continue to service the WA football community and grow the sport.”