WAFL State Academy coaches reappointedWednesday, September 25, 2013 - 10:34 AM

WAFL State Academy coaches Michael Pratt and John Hancock have been reappointed to head up the WAFL State 18s and 16s squads respectively in 2014 under the guidance of WAFL Academy Coach Co-ordinator Tim Gepp.

WAFL Talent Manager Raff Guadagnino said both coaches were great examples of the WAFL coaching pathway, developing their coaching skills through the WAFL system and furthering their qualifications with AFL High Performance Coaching Accreditations.

“It is a credit to both of these coaches that they have been willing to commit their time to make a significant contribution to the development of young athletes in WA,” Guadagnino said.

“Both coaches embrace the unity, professionalism and a progressive nature of the WAFL Academy philosophy that will produce an elite environment for players that have ambitions of playing our game at the highest level.

“They also demonstrate a strong commitment to developing the individual holistically, which includes focussing on life skills, physical attributes, football knowledge, personal growth and self-esteem for all players.”

Players that are selected for the WAFL Academy are products of the WAFL Development Pathway, which commences with the annual 14s and 15s Carnival.

This year’s 14s and 15s Carnival, involving 40 teams and 76 games across two weeks, kicked off on Saturday, September 21 and will conclude on Tuesday, October 8. The best developing talent will be showcased at WAFL and community football grounds during the event.

Three teams from the South West and a 15’s team from the Northern Territory will also participate at the Carnival. The Carnival is also used for umpires to trial for the 2014 Umpire Talent Development squads.

Michael Pratt  – Key Coaching Roles

2012-2013           WAFL State 18s Head Coach

2011                     WAFL State 18s Assistant Coach

2011                     Peel Thunder League Assistant Coach

2008-2010           Peel Thunder Colts Head Coach (Grand Finalists)

2005-2007           Western Jets Assistant Coach

2004                     South Fremantle Assistant Coach

John Hancock – Key Coaching Roles

2013                     WAFL State 16s Head Coach

2012                     WAFL State 18s Assistant Coach

2010-2011           WAFL State 16s Assistant Coach (2 games as Head Coach)

2008- 2009          East Fremantle 16s Development Squad, Assistant Coach

2007                     Perth FC Colts Assistant Coach

2000-2006           Rossmoyne JFC 15s & 16s Head Coach     

                            East Fremantle Development Squad Head Coach