AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT) and long-term supporter Cazalys Palmerston Club formally launched its partnership for the AFLNT Community Football Program today.
The Cazalys Community Football Program is a refocussed initiative by AFLNT to increase grass roots engagement in the Club Development area, in line with the national AFL strategy.
AFL Community Football Manager NT Leigh Elder said the origins of the refocussed effort can be traced back to the strategic shift that occurred when the Thunder senior men’s and women’s teams finished up.
“It’s fantastic that Cazalys has joined us as the Premier Partner of the Community Football Program,” Elder said.
“This program has enormous benefits, particularly the two new dedicated positions focussed on improving club governance, coaching and umpiring.”
“This is about ensuring our clubs are not only healthy but sustainable, and we hope this will bring long-term benefit with more Territory kids being better prepared for talent pathways through improved coaching.”
Andrew McBean will take on the role of Club Development Manager while Darren Pfeiffer will wear the Umpiring and Coaching Manager hat. McBean was previously Umpiring Manager NT and already has a comprehensive understanding of the environment.
Pfeiffer has a wealth of footy knowledge having formerly been an AFL-listed player with Carlton and Port Adelaide and has since worked in the coaching and talent areas in AFL NSW. Pfeiffer will focus on umpiring governance and structure as well as coaching education and accreditation.
Cazalys General Manager Matt Hewer was on hand at Cazalys Arena in Palmerston to launch the program and said they are delighted to get behind the initiative.
“There is so much about this approach that aligns with our direction at Cazalys – we’re ultimately about supporting grass roots sports and there could not be a better example of this than the AFLNT Community Footy Program,” Hewer said.
“We’re here in Palmerston which is a great example of the growth in both population but also footy – we’re excited to be a part of this program that will assist clubs and nurture the enormous talent we have here in the Territory.”