Fremantle’s second annual Teacher Professional Development Day built on last year’s inaugural success, welcoming around 60 educators from primary and secondary schools across Western Australia to the Club’s HQ on Friday 14 November for a day filled with insights, collaboration, and practical learning opportunities.
This year’s program maintained the spirit of hands-on engagement and community focus, giving teachers tools and inspiration to adapt AFL learnings for the classroom and apply in their own teaching.
Fountain College primary teacher Olivia Taylor was among the attendees who praised the event’s unique access and relevance.
“It’s been extremely interesting. Hearing from the CEO, doing the strength and conditioning, and applying it to primary school – was very exciting,” Taylor said.
She also highlighted the impact of seeing how AFLW player routines could translate into engaging content for students, and the buzz created by facility tours and player visits in her own multicultural school community.
“It is actually our second year doing it. It's just been amazing... getting (students) to go through the online programs, access the hub, do the work booklets, watch the videos, and then the excitement of getting the players to visit was just great, and the kids love it,” Taylor reflected.
The day featured a keynote from Fremantle Chief Executive Officer Simon Garlick, panel sessions with coaches and players, interactive activities, breakout sessions run by wellbeing and strength & conditioning staff, and an in-depth facility tour.
A key highlight was the AFL Strategy and Leadership Q&A panel led by Opposition Strategy Coach Andrew Sturgess, whose own journey from teaching to elite sport resonated widely.
“I think some of the common phrases I heard today from different speakers – teaching is coaching, and coaching is teaching,” Sturgess said.
“Ultimately, that's what we’re trying to do, transfer knowledge and wisdom so our students, i.e. the players, can actually go out and perform. And I don't think it's any different from a teaching space”.
“I commend (teachers) for investing in their own development and their own growth. Any time you can invest in your growth and development is beneficial.”
Teachers left with new ideas, strategies, and classroom resources – ready to share the excitement for footy and learning with students across the state.
The Fremantle Football Club extends its gratitude to the WA Football for their support in this event and their commitment to delivering FFC & WA Football branded programs in 2025.
This collaborative effort underscores the Club's dedication to fostering strong connections with the education community and supporting the development of AFL at the grassroots level.
