Presidents Report for the Winter 2008 and Summer 2009 Seasons

In what has been a defining year for football in Central Australia the executive committee is pleased to report that we have achieved most of our 1st year objectives outlined in the 3 year strategy presented to NTG, FFNT, FFA and our sponsors : INCORPORATION: With the formation of  “Football in Central Australia” FICA inc. we are now better placed to develop programs which will give maximum benefit to our region for the effort we put in and allow us to deliver them with greater efficiency. To comply with FFA affiliation we remain under the FFNT umbrella for the time being, however the days of subsidising Darwin football are over. DEVELOPMENT OFFICER: With effect Jan 2009 we have appointed a full time football development Officer for a period of 2 years. This will enable FICA continuity in delivery of programs and grow an outback football culture and unique style based on technique, speed and fair play. THE CHARLIE PERKINS FOOTBALL ACADEMY: In Nov 2008 we launched The Charlie Perkins Football Academy. Endorsed by the Perkins family the Academy invites participation in a series of structured  upskills development sessions with emphasis on leadership on and off the field. This will include the use of the proven public speaking concepts adopted by the Toastmaster organisation as well as FFA approved training drills. Players representing Alice Springs in FFA sanctioned competitions must enrol in this Academy. FOOTBALL FOR WOMEN: “We’re In A League of Our Own”. With the support of Imparja FICA has introduced a dedicated competition for girls and women 15yrs and over. The winter league started with 6 teams and the current summer 7 v 7 night series has 7 teams. We are encouraged by FFA grow this segment and we envisage a greater uptake this year. A launch night attended by FFA ambassador Andy Harper and possibly a Matildas representative is being discussed. OUTBACK STREET SOCCER: In the shadows of Anzac Hill we started our Street Soccer program for the kids in Alice Springs Town camps and  homeless wandering the streets. Under the auspices of Tangentyere Council this initiative aims to engage young people and encourage socially acceptable behaviour and at the same time promoting a healthier lifestyle and an alternative to alcohol, drugs and petty crime. We are actively seeking support from a wide range of stakeholders to purchase a mobile facility so that we can take The World Game to The Outback and achieve measurable outcomes in the process. Paul Lelliott FICA President