Player Development
Established by the players, for the players, the mission of the PFA’s Player Development Program is to develop, support and empower the players. Under the PDP model, the PFA aims to ensure the players have access to Health and Wellbeing, Career and Education and Personal Development services, while accessing Industry Understanding and Professionalism.
PFA Player Development Program Model
Our mission is to develop, support and empower our people throughout and beyond their professional football careers.
Lydia Williams
PFA Executive and MatildaHealth & Wellbeing
All players have access to the PFA’s Psychological Support Network. This confidential and nationwide service consists of psychologists, psychiatrists and psychotherapists, who provide players with support in a variety of areas. This includes:
- Depression;
- Anxiety;
- Relationship breakdown;
- Addiction;
- Grief;
- Body issues; and
- Performance Anxiety.
The PFA was there when I needed them the most and ensured I could get the support I needed.
Current W-League Player
Wellbeing literacy program completed at all A-League, W-League and Y-League Clubs. This focused on:
- Signs of distress;
- Impacting factors;
- Self-care; and
- Available support services.
Physical Wellbeing Support Services
Players undertook skin cancer checks during 2019/20.
Special Assistance Funding
Provided in Special Assistance Funding to players to assist during times of extreme hardship.
Career & Education
Education Grants
The PFA recognises the importance of education and supports player’s endeavours in this area by providing financial assistance via education grants. Players can apply annually by outlining how the study relates to their career plan. Total number of education grants provided to players during the 2019/20 season:
*Note: Round 2 applications postponed due to financial impact of COVID-19.
My study has helped me to succeed on the pitch, helped me cope with set-backs and given me control over the future direction of my life.
Jamie Young
Brisbane RoarBeyond the 90 - PFA Work Placement Program
The Beyond the 90 Program provides an opportunity for players to engage in a meaningful work placement experience alongside their professional playing careers.
*Note: Placements postponed due to COVID-19.
Skill Development Workshops
230 Players also undertook workshops focusing on:
- Barista Skills Course
- Property Investment
- Cooking Classes
- Nutrition and Meal Planning
Coach Education
The 2019/20 season saw the coach education workshops rescheduled due COVID-19 imposed restrictions.
Recruitment Support
84 A-League & W-League Player highlights and scouting packages produced