Last weekend on the 24th and 25th November, Football NSW hosted the 2024 Coaching Conference where over 800 coaches made the trip to Valentine Sports Park in what was a huge two days.

Hosted by Stephanie Brantz, the Conference saw keynote presentations given by international and domestic special guests. Amongst the many highlights during the weekend were presentations and panel sessions from such luminaries as former national team players and coaches including Graham Arnold, Peter Sturgess, Skye Eddy, Gabriel Bussinger and Kelly Cross to name a few.

There were several awards that were given during the marquee event acknowledging the hard-working efforts of various male and female coaches across the state. It was then that Football St George’s (“FSG”) very own Helen Matheson was awarded the Grassroots Female Coach of the year.

Helen, who is a registered coach with Connells Point Rovers Football Club, has been actively coaching within this framework since 2020.

FSG Technical Director Brian Dene had this to say about Helen, “Helen creates a welcoming and supportive environment for all players. She emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game. Testimonials from players and parents highlight her ability to inspire confidence and enthusiasm among her team members.”

Helen had this to say about the event, her football journey and receiving the award “The Football NSW Coaching conference was an amazing experience, and it was nice to be recognised. I was very honoured to be presented the award by Graham Arnold. I had watched him many times play as a player back in the NSL days and then taking on the role as a coach.

My late father Harry was my first coach as a player, and I wanted to dedicate this award to all the parents who take on the role of a grassroots coach. That’s how I started my coaching journey, and I would also love to see more female coaches taking the next step and deciding to become a coach.

I really wanted to thank all of those who have supported me in my coaching journey. I would like to give a special mention to my amazing partner Nigel, who has always believed and supported me… The fantastic women’s coaches we have in our area like Zainab Jaber and Amanda Marino and last but not least, FSG Technical Director Brian Dene who has always been so supportive, has a wealth of experience and knowledge and is someone who I really look up to.”

Helen is also deeply embedded in the local community. She understands the significance of her role beyond just coaching soccer. She actively participates in community events, fosters inclusivity, and promotes the values of teamwork, respect, and fair play. Her initiatives often extend beyond the pitch, contributing positively to the local community. She is dedicated to the development of her players, encouraging and assisting them in accessing advanced training programs and higher-level competitions. Several of her players have successfully transitioned to both the FSG GSAP and other NPL programs, thanks to her guidance and support.

Brian Dene added further, “Helen embodies the qualities of an exemplary grassroots female coach. Her dedication to providing a positive experience for her players, her exemplary conduct, her active role in the community, her support for player development, and her commitment to her own professional growth made her a standout candidate for the Grassroots Female Coach of the Year award.”

 

Helen Matheson’s Community Football Roles 2024

  • Coach 16A’s Girls – Connells Point Rovers FC
  • Manager U12A’s – Connells Point Rovers FC
  • Assistant Coach Women’s Premier League Team – Connells Point Rovers FC
  • Player Women’s Premier League Team – Connells Point Rovers FC
  • Female Football Co-Ordinator – Connells Point Rovers FC
  • Under 11 GSAP Head Coach – Football St George (Part -Time Program)
  • Participation Officer, Schools – Football Australia
  • AFC/FA C Diploma (Currently on B Diploma, completion November 2024)

 

-ENDS-