1) What are the main focus areas for each program?
The WESTSTAR Football Academy is a three stage program which allows our coaches to provide specific training relevant to the athlete’s stage of development. Below are the three stages:
Rookie (9 & 10yrs)
Our Rookie program is designed to:
- Teach players the correct skill techniques when executing the fundamental skills of our game.
- Practice executing these skills in decision making scenarios.
- Introduce defensive pressure, encouraging decision making and skill execution in match simulation environments.
Development (11 & 12yrs)
Skill technique and decision making is still the main focus of our development program with a greater emphasis placed on executing these skills and making the right decisions under defensive pressure. Defensive skill techniques, such as, tackling and spoiling will be introduced as will contested ground ball and marking techniques.
Academy (13 – 15yrs)
Our Academy consists of three focus areas:
1.Skill: (Focusing on execution under pressure)
2.Footy IQ
- Decision making
- Structure
- Positioning
3.Conditioning
- Fitness
- Speed/Agility/Power
- Repeat effort
2) How do I get invited to train at WESTSTAR?
Academy
- WESTSTAR coaches and recruiters are in regular attendance at local club, school and district matches identifying suitable footballers to join the WESTSTAR program.
- WESTSTAR is in contact with local club, school and district coaches who recommend suitable footballers to train at WESTSTAR.
- Identified via WESTSTAR’s Rookie and Development program.
Rookie
- WESTSTAR coaches and recruiters are in regular attendance at local club, school and district matches identifying suitable footballers to join the WESTSTAR program.
- WESTSTAR is in contact with local club, school and district coaches who recommend suitable footballers to train at WESTSTAR.
***PLEASE NOTE: WESTSTAR’s Rookie program is open to all players aged 9 & 10yrs who are committed to working on their skill development.
If you believe you have what it takes to train with at WESTSTAR please click here (takes you to contact page) to register your interest.
3) Why does WESTSTAR operate in Summer?
There are 2 main reasons why WESTSTAR Football Acdemy operates in the summer. WESTSTAR Football Academy has a high priority in complementing WA’s talent pathway therefore, WESTSTAR operates in the summer to avoid any conflict in this area. At WESTSTAR, we are firm believers that it is just as important to maintain skill and touch during the off-season as it is during the season. This notion is stressed at elite levels, such as the AFL. Please note, if the WESTSTAR program conflicts with your summer sport passion, we urge you to continue that passion and reach out to us if you require any assistance in your off-season football development.
4) Will participating in the WESTSTAR program ensure my child gets considered and or selected in state, WAFL or AFL squads or teams?
The WESTSTAR program will give every athlete who brings great effort to the sessions their best chance to improve however, no academy can guarantee a pathway into a WAFL development squad or the AFL.
5) Do all the coaches have a working with children check?
Yes, it is mandatory at WESTSTAR that all of our coaches have a current working with children check.
6) What happens if the temperature reaches 40 degrees on a planned WESTSTAR session?
Should the temperature reach 40 degrees or over at the time of training the session will be cancelled. Either a credit will be applied or an alternative session time will be arranged to make up for the cancelled session. It is important that if high temperatures do occur during training times that the athletes make sure they stay sufficiently hydrated. Access to extra water is always available at every session. Regular drink breaks will occur during these sessions of high temperatures.
Sunscreen should always be applied before any session and extra sunscreen is always available.
7) Is my son or daughter covered for any accidents that happen during a WESTSTAR session?
Yes, all athletes are insured for any injuries that may occur at a WESTSTAR training session.
8) What level of fitness does my son or daughter need to be in to participate in the WESTSTAR program?
WESTSTAR expects all athletes to maintain a suitable standard of fitness and commitment in order to get the most out of our program.
9) How many athletes will be in my group?
Our groups are capped at 18 players max to ensure personal coaching is provided to each player. Coaches will remain with their group for the whole program ensuring strong relationships are formed.
10) Do I have to sign up for both blocks?
Yes, due to high demand and apparel allocations in 2017/18 athletes will be required to sign up for the 16 week pre-season. This will ensure WESTSTAR coaches can provide highly customised and ongoing feedback for maximum improvement.
11) What if I miss the cut off sign up date?
Due to maintaining our low player to coach ratio and organising apparel we have listed spots available. Please contact admin@weststaracademy.com.au immediately
12) Are there toilet facilities?
Yes, all of our locations will have toilet facilities”
13) What is provided at the sessions:
Athletes are encouraged to bring their own water bottle and sun screen however both will be provided at the sessions
14) How long does the block run for?
9 weeks pre-Christmas commencing at … and 7 weeks post-Christmas commencing at … and finish at ….
15)How long do the sessions run for?
Rookie: 1-2pm
Development: 2:30-3:30pm
Academy: 4-5:30pm
16) What do I need to bring?
Athletes are encouraged to bring their own water bottle, boots, mouth-guard, training shorts and a great attitude. A WESTSTAR singlet and cap will be provided.