Northern Fury Football Club and Kirwan State High School in Townsville have joined forces to establish the first Football Centre of Excellence in North Queensland.

The new Centre will deliver the national football curriculum developed by FFA and be open to all students at the school.

“We’ve had a centre of excellence in rugby league since day one of the North Queensland Cowboys,” said Kirwan SHS Principal, John Livingston.

“But we’re very aware that football is the sport of first choice for many of our students. From my perspective, I also want students to be physically active as it contributes to their physical, social and emotional wellbeing.

“With Northern Fury here on our doorstep, and with someone of the calibre and experience of Ian Ferguson as Director of Coaching, I thought this was a wonderful opportunity for our school and our students.”

Livingston said that the global appeal of football is also an important factor for young people.

“Every day we can see some form of football, whether it’s here in Australia, elsewhere through Asia or in the biggest leagues in the world. There’s also the World Cup this year, and the Asian Cup in Australia next January.

“As an educator, I think a global sport like football helps broaden outlooks and breaks down cultural and language barriers between individuals and, ultimately, between nations.”

Ferguson, along with Northern Fury Technical Director Harry Bingham, will oversee a program that focuses on skill development, technical and tactical knowledge, fitness and nutrition for football.

“We are delighted to establish this Football Centre of Excellence with Kirwan State High,” said Bingham.

“It’s an important component of Fury being a club for the community. Importantly, it brings football right where the kids are – at school – at no cost to parents or the children, other than their boots and shin pads.”

Ferguson added that he expects to find more talented youngsters also, “Obviously, we’ll be on the lookout for potential players for our elite program through Northern Fury.”

“I’ve been so impressed with the natural athleticism of so many young people I’ve seen since returning to Townsville.

“What we want to do is develop that talent so young players are skilled, technically and tactically comfortable and confident also."

Ferguson said the important part of the Football Centre of Excellence is giving young people the opportunity to play.

“As a father of three, I concur with John Livingston’s comments about the importance of young people playing sport and being physically active. 

"If the Centre assists this, and helps young people build physical and mental resilience, we consider that’s a job well done and a critical contribution to our community.”

 

Words & Image: Northern Fury FC