THE Sydney Swans have launched their inaugural First Nations Academy in Coffs Harbour.

Some of the region’s First Nations players were put through their paces in a training session at Fitzroy Oval, overseen by Sydney Swans Manager, First Nations Strategy and Player Development, Jarred Hodges.

The First Nations Academy program was also launched in Port Macquarie, the Central Coast, Sydney, and Illawarra.

By launching the Academy on the North Coast, the Swans have shown their commitment to supporting both First Nations people and the Coffs Coast region itself.

The First Nations Academy is a ten-week sporting program designed to not only increase the participation and involvement of First Nations People across the whole game (i.e. playing, coaching, strength and conditioning and administration), but also to identify those with the physical capabilities and character to become a high-performing athlete.

The ten-week program is holistic in its design, incorporating mental health and cultural education sessions with strategically planned technical and tactical training led by experienced staff.

The program will provide a culturally safe and inclusive environment, fostering a greater sense of belonging and connection to AFL and the broader Sydney Swans family.

At the conclusion of the program, identified talent will be offered the opportunity to advance to a fully funded scholarship position with the QBE Sydney Swans Academy.

Community Football and Competition Manager ‑ Northern NSW, Paul Taylor, said the program was just as much about getting Indigenous youth engaged in healthy lifestyles and First Nations culture, as it was about finding the next Adam Goodes, Michael O’Loughlin, or Aliesha Newman.

“A key objective of the program is identifying talent to progress through the Swans system, however providing an avenue for Indigenous kids to engage with physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and First Nations culture is every bit as much a priority,” he said.

The program is open to both males and females aged ten to seventeen years of age.

To be eligible to apply for the First Nations Academy, a person must firstly be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.

In addition, to be eligible for the Swans Academy, the applicant must be ‘endorsed’ by the Swans Academy staff, the endorsement will cover both the physical and emotional/personal qualities of the applicant.

To express an interest in getting involved in the program please complete the form at this link, or for more information contact Jarred Hodges, Manager First Nations Programs, via hodgesj@sydneyswans.com.au.

By Aiden BURGESS