Academy partnership benefits on and off the fieldWednesday, May 18, 2016 - 1:41 PM

Supporting local footy is a two-way partnership for Depreciation Professionals DEPPRO.

DEPPRO came on board as Principal Partner of the WA State 16s and State 18s programs this year to support the development of WA’s most talented young players.

Having boys of her own progress through the ranks of local football, DEPPRO State Relationship Manager Denise Matier said she saw the partnership as a great opportunity to put something back into grassroots development.

“I know firsthand what sort of commitment it takes from the players and the parents and how hard it can be to find sponsors so I thought it was really important that DEPPRO helped out,” she said.

“DEPPRO supports other sports interstate and I thought that with our WA presence we should also get involved in supporting WA footy.”

Former State 18s Academy member and current League player for Perth Football Club, Laine Wilkins, works in Administration at DEPPRO, adding another component to the partnership. 

“Having Laine in our office has also made us realise as employers that we need to be flexible and support our members of staff who are striving to achieve their goals,” Ms Matier said.

“The values of teamwork, respect and responsibility that are reinforced through football only benefit us as an organisation when it comes to our employees and I think that’s something that other businesses should be aware of.”

Wilkins said he appreciated the support and flexibility DEPPRO afforded him with his football career.

“Just to be able to leave work when I need to for training and have that understanding is great,” he said.

“I’m really glad DEPPRO is supporting the State Academy as well. I really enjoyed my Academy experience and know the program is a great benefit for young players who not only want to improve their football skills, but their all-round personal development as well.”

WAFC State Talent Manager Adam Jones said DEPPRO’s support was greatly appreciated.

“This partnership with DEPPRO will allow us to maximise opportunities for our players and deliver a highly professional program that continues to achieve talent outcomes for Western Australia,” he said.

The partnership sees DEPPRO’s logo featured on the front and back of the State 16s and State 18s playing guernsey and off-field upper body apparel.

DEPPRO will also attend the official State Academy jumper presentation night at Domain Stadium on May 24.

The State 18s AFL National Championships commence on June 5 and the State 16s AFL National Championships on June 25.

To find out more about DEPPRO visit www.deppro.com.au/