Football - Men - Home
Football is a sport that requires a range of dynamic skills that include short, explosive movements, endurance, agility, technical and tactical skills in addition to a lot of decision-making. Elite football players have honed these skills to an exceptional level but have done so with the help of advanced training techniques, sports science and sports medicine, and opportunities for competition. All of this can be achieved through a holistic program such as that offered by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).
Football was one of the eight founding sports of the AIS. The program was established in 1981 with two broad aims - to identify and develop players for the national under-20 youth team and to develop coaches through the Scholarship Coaching scheme. With the advent of the National Youth League this has been adjusted and players are usually 16 (turning 17) years of age when they begin their scholarship now.
Scholarships are initially offered for one year with a second year being offered if the players do well. The AIS looks to field teams in the best possible competition for the young players development and has an excellent record of success given the players' youth.
The squad also endeavours to provide opportunities to play and train overseas, further developing experience and professionalism by competing against a variety of opposition and playing styles. Tours have included Malaysia, China, South America, Mexico, Europe and the United States. Other areas integrated into the AIS program include sports psychology, nutrition, physiology, biomechanics, strength and conditioning, recovery and travel skills.
The AIS Football program is a residential program. It is well known and respected in the international football community and is seen by many as a quality feeding ground for professional clubs, both domestic and international.
Anna Meares OAM