‘No School No Play’ Indigenous Football Development Program

In 2009, FFA announced the introduction of the Indigenous Football Development Program (IFDP) aimed at increasing football participation within Australia’s Indigenous communities.

In 2009, FFA announced the introduction of the Indigenous Football Development Program (IFDP) aimed at increasing football participation within Australia-s Indigenous communities. Sitting in the heart of the program lays the Indigenous Football Festival (IFF).The first IFF was held in Townsville July 2009, with the next festival scheduled for Alice Springs in July 2011.

Moving into its third year, the IFDP will once again be implemented across all Member Federations. Adopting a new approach, the program will foster the ‘No School No Play- - Department of Education, Employment and Work Relations initiative, in attempt to increase or improve Indigenous students- school attendance through football participation.

Targeting approximately 1,600 students across 27 schools nationally - in both metropolitan and regional areas, Member Federations will deliver an incentivised football program, which encourages students to attend school more regularly, ultimately assisting with the education of pupils. Each participating student from Years 7-12, will be educated with the Grassroots Coaching Certificate, which is delivered over a number of sessions by experienced and qualified Member Federation coaches.

Indigenous mentors, such as current Westfield Matilda - Kyah Simon, Westfield W-League, Hyundai A-League and National Youth League players, will play vital roles in delivering educational messages to all participants, outlining the importance of attending school regularly while balancing a healthy active lifestyle.

For more information, please contact FFA National Participation Manager - Vito Basile: P: (02) 8020 4063 E: vito.basile@footballaustralia.com.au