Top footy teachers recognisedWednesday, August 5, 2015 - 2:41 PM

West Australian teachers were recognised for their outstanding work in Australian Football at the 2015 Woolworths AFL School Ambassador Awards night at Domain Stadium on Thursday, July 30.

In front of a supportive crowd of BHP Billiton, West Coast Eagles, Fremantle Football Club, school and community football representatives, the 35 finalists were acknowledged and seven category winners were announced:

West Australian Football Commission Education Manager Sharon Wilson congratulated all of the award finalists and thanked the attendees, school principals, teachers and their colleagues for supporting such an important program.

“Although the successful teachers, ideas and methods of delivery change year to year, the one constant is the message of opportunity through football,” she said.

“All state football bodies reward and recognise Woolworths AFL School Ambassadors in various ways. Our most Outstanding Primary and Secondary AFLSAs are invited to the national function and an AFL finals series game in Melbourne. The Outstanding Service Award winner is invited to the AFL Grand Final thanks to BHP Billiton Iron Ore, the Principal Community Partner of the West Coast Eagles.”

The Woolworths AFL Schools Ambassador Program aims to resource recognise and reward teachers who enhance football development in all levels and segments of education in Western Australia.

It encourages an alliance between schools and communities: to develop and promote Australian Football in the classroom and on the sporting field and provide guidance, planning and leadership to all school football stakeholders.

At a national level Mark Riddiford, AFL Schools and Education Manager sets the challenge of at least one AFLSA in every school.

All registered teachers are eligible to become a Woolworths AFL School Ambassador. The WAFC provides training, equipment and support free of charge.

2015 Award Winners

2015 AFLSA Outstanding Service Award: Ray Barrett, Kiara College

Most Outstanding Primary Woolworths AFL School Ambassador: Narelle Scott, Tuart Rise Primary School

Most Outstanding Secondary Woolworths AFL School Ambassador: Austin Ward, Cecil Andrews Senior High School

Outstanding First Year Woolworths AFL School Ambassador: Scott Minchin, Wanneroo Secondary College

Outstanding Multicultural AFL Program: Brigit Wall, Tuart Rise Primary School

Outstanding Indigenous AFL Program: Terry Pass, Gwynne Park Primary

Outstanding Female AFL Program: Joe Kendall, Helena College

Photo: Ray Barrett from Kiara College receives his Outstanding Service Award from Michelle Phillips (West Coast Eagles) and Richard O’Connell (BHP Billiton).