World Footy News

Footy development in South Africa is set to receive a boost, courtesy of Australian Volunteers International and the AFL. Working together, the organisations have called for applicants wishing to fill the role of footy development officer working with South African clubs, schools and communities.

The appointed officer will enhance the work being done by Footy South Africa in developing footy as a sporting alternative to soccer and rugby union in the country. In the past, the South African government has stated its wish to introduce a sport appealing to South Africans of all ethnicities, and footy's multi-racial appeal in Australia provides a strong example of the game's potential.

Football development in South Africa are currently centred around the North-West Province, west of Johannesburg, and is included in the North West Province Acadamy of Sport. Since the code's introduction to the nation in 2001, a strong community-based programme has been established in the province, and it is envisiaged that the new development officer will assist the sport's expansion to neighbouring provinces. Areas of expansion could include Northern Transvaal, Gauteng, Free State and Northern Cape.

AVI and the AFL are seeking applicants with playing, coaching or umpiring experience in footy and experience in dealing with a wide cross-section of the community. The placement commences in Oct/Nov this year, and the volunteer will be provided with living allowances, airfars, insurance and accomodation.

Applications can be made via mail, fax or e-mail, closing on August 31st 2004. Initial enquiries should be directed to:

Ed Biggs
Community Development Manager
Australian Football League 
Ph: 03 9643 1944
Email: edb@afl.com.au

For further information regarding selection criteria, e-mail Australian Volunteers International on recruit@australianvolunteers.com, visit www.australianvolunteers.com or contact John Boxshall on 03 9279 1752.