Salesian College Sunbury has announced a new partnership with the Essendon Football Club and the Calder Cannons in the development of the school’s AFL Academy Program.
Through the AFL Academy, students access elite-level coaching, strength and conditioning programs, and nationally recognised qualifications – all within a structured school environment.
The academy’s mission is to empower student-athletes to thrive on and off the field, gaining insight into the world of professional sport through AFL-specific training. Students also work towards a Certificate III in Sport and Recreation, along with coaching, officiating and sports management qualifications.
Ahead of the launch, testing is now underway. Students involved were given the opportunity to meet with past pupil and current Essendon forward Harry Jones who shared firsthand advice about the mental and physical demands of elite-level AFL and the resilience required to succeed.
Essendon Football Club strategy and growth lead Kristen Bull said it was a welcome partnership.
“The Essendon Football Club is proud to support the development of aspiring AFL talent within the Salesian College community,” she said.
“Harnessing students’ strengths and passion for the game to drive learning is incredibly powerful, and the academy being established at Salesian will provide a strong foundation for young people to pursue meaningful careers in sport.”
Salesian College principal Mark Brockhus echoed this sentiment.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to creating exclusive learning and growth opportunities for our students so they can thrive in life – academically, physically and personally,” he said.
“We’re proud to offer a program that supports both their sporting aspirations and their long term career pathways.”
With a five session per-week model that blends theory and practice, the Salesian AFL Academy continues to grow as one of the region’s most holistic and career-focused sports and development programs.
