Today, local club, Lochinvar Rovers FC was presented its Certificate of Achievement – Level 3 Accreditation in the Football Federation Australia (FFA) National Club Accreditation Scheme – the first Club in Australia to bestow the honour.
Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) Community Football Manager Peter Haynes and Hunter Valley Football Manager Sarah White presented the Club with their certificate this morning which was awarded to them for upholding the highest standards for a community football club from management and governance through to safety and strategic planning.
The process of achieving this accreditation involved collaboration between the Club and NNSWF Senior Officer – Club Development, Ross Hicks.
Hicks was ecstatic for the club as he has witnessed how hard the club has worked to achieve the Accreditation.
“The club was highly motivated and their optimism was hugely beneficial in working towards achieving Level 3 Club Accreditation.
“The committee and its volunteers worked tirelessly and with great enthusiasm and genuine interest to improve their club to set in good stead for future generations to come. Lisa (Duhig) and her team, completed the process thoroughly and diligently and I thank and congratulate them for their efforts,” concluded Hicks.
To be awarded Level 3 Accreditation in the Football Federation Australia (FFA) National Club Accreditation Scheme, Clubs must excel in a range of criteria, set by the FFA which include:
- Club Management & Governance; Up to date club constitution and policies, adherence to State legislation
- Child Protection; Adherence to Working with Children Check and implementation of child safe organisation procedures.
- Accredited Coaches; Minimum of 75% accredited coaches within the club and implementation of NNSWF’s Club Coach Coordinator program
- Safety & Risk Management; implementation of a risk management procedure including a match day checklist and insurance coverage.
- Implementation of strategies and programs that have increased female participation for players, coaches and volunteers.
- Promoting Positive Behaviour; Actively involved with respect programs such as Silent Saturday, Referee Recognition Week and FFA’s code of conduct.
- Development of a Club Strategic Plan; includes player, coach and volunteer development and retention, facility development, marketing and communications, partnership development and creating a welcoming environment.
Other football clubs within Northern NSW who are interested in finding out more can visit here or contact the Northern NSW Football Community Football team.
