Goannas gain silver-level accreditation

The Holroyd Parramatta Goannas Junior AFL Club is the first silver level accredited club in NSW and the ACT through the AFL Quality Club program.

The AFL Quality Club program is designed to reward clubs for achieving high standards in administration in an endeavour to improve the overall club environment.

For players to reach their potential and to play AFL in a fun and inclusive environment it is pivotal for clubs to demonstrate high standards both on and off the field.

The Goannas were rewarded the silver level accreditation when the last of their trainers achieved a Level 1 Sports Trainers Accreditation.

AFL NSW/ACT Football Services Officer Kirsty Moon said the Goannas are leading the way for clubs in the state and territory.

“Congratulations to the Holroyd Parramatta Goannas for achieving their silver level accreditation,”

“It is hoped the Goannas will be one of many clubs to reach the high standard of administration in the coming years.

“It is imperative for all clubs to maintain quality people, resources and facilities to keep players and volunteers in the game and to create a family and inclusive club environment.”

It is a significant achievement for the Goannas with the club developing St Kilda-bound Jackson Ferguson. Ferguson will join the Saints in the NAB Rookie Draft on December 7 .

There are many benefits of clubs being involved in the Quality Club program as clubs will be able to create an environment which helps attract new participants, officials, members and sponsors. On top of this, clubs can minimise any risks associated with the week to week running of a football club.

The concept of the Quality Club program is to provide an opportunity for all community football clubs to achieve a minimum standard of club administration. With this, clubs will be recognised and rewarded for achieving the base standard through to standards of excellence. Clubs have the opportunity to work through three levels – bronze, silver and gold.

Goannas President Mark Geloven said the Goannas will be striving to become the first gold accredited club in the state and territory.

“Being the first club in NSW/ACT to receive the Silver level of quality accreditation is a great honour and a fantastic reward for our club,” Geloven said.

“It recognises the work that we have put in and it will continue to guide us as the club moves forward. Having the Silver accreditation will be beneficial in our bid to gain sponsorship and lift our profile in the community but also to demonstrate to potential families that we are a club that offers a quality program on and off the field.

“We hope this will help us recognise one of our goals of fielding a team in each age group in the not to distant future.”