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Next Coach Program

The Next Coach Program began in 2009 and during this time current AFL players have engaged in learning alongside coaches from AFL Clubs, State and community football, as well as Coaches from NRL Clubs, Netball and Gaelic Football.

Approximately 20% of Coaches currently employed at AFL Clubs have completed the Next Coach Program including AFL Senior Coaches Adam Simpson, Simon Goodwin, Ben Rutten and Sam Mitchell.

Program facilitator David Wheadon has developed a curriculum which is practical and engaging, drawing on his experiences under 11 AFL Senior Coaches over 30 years.

Participants are assisted to formulate their own views which leads to stimulating conversations and allows them to create their own coaching philosophy.

David is a true innovator in the game of AFL and considered by many one of the great coach educators in Australia.

To participate in the Next Coach Program you must have:

- A willingness to challenge your own thinking
- A desire to review and discuss coaching concepts
- A genuine interest in developing your understanding of great coaching




CRITICAL ELEMENTS OF THE NEXT COACH PROGRAM

  • The Art of Coaching
  • Coaching the team and coaching individuals
  • Philosophy of coaching
  • Teaching and learning styles
  • Emotional intelligence and coaching
  • Teaching the game – decision making/skill acquisition/game sense
  • Presentations and meetings
  • The role of the Coach, Assistant Coach and Development Coach
  • Strategy and tactics
  • Key Performance Indicators for success
  • Game plan

ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COURSE WILL CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA

  • Genuine desire to challenge your coaching acumen
  • Potentially pursuing a career in coaching
  • Intellectual capacity to understand coaching concepts and ideas
  • Willingness to research coaching concepts and investigate materials suggested
  • Enthusiasm to commit to the course involving interactive sessions
  • Participants will be expected to submit all written assignments and give a brief presentation to the group
  • Level 2 Coaching qualification is favourably considered

TO APPLY

1. REGISTER HERE

2. Submit a brief written application addressing your experience and interest in the Next Coach Program and provide contact details of a Referee from your club. This detail should be directed to ron.watt@aflca.com.au

UPCOMING COURSE DATES FOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

    • Friday 29th November - 8am - 6pm
    • Saturday 30th November - 8am - 6pm
    • Sunday 1st December - 8am - 12:00 noon

    Delivery will be Online or face to face in Melbourne.

        TO RECEIVE THE NEXT COACH CERTIFICATE YOU NEED TO DO THE FOLLOWING

        1. Participate in at least 80% of group sessions (Sessions missed must be made up with David)
        2. Submit each of the written assignments
        3. Provide a short presentation in the final group session

        COST

        The Cost of the Next Coach Program is $3,000 +GST (payment plans available)

        FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

        Ron Watt
        AFL Coaches Association – Member Services Manager
        ron.watt@aflca.com.au
        0418 390 648

        David Wheadon
        Next Coach Coordinator
        0418 524 741