Coaches from right across the region can now book their places to the AFL South East ‘Coach Support and Mentor Program’ – with dates released for three sessions in 2019.

The program, which built in momentum last season, aims to bring coaches together to share their knowledge and experiences with one another in a cohesive and enjoyable environment.

Roughly three years ago, well -respected former Devon Meadows coach Brent Clinnick put a pitch to AFLSE Football Development Manager Cam Roberts aimed at introducing a program to support the coaches.

Clinnick understood perfectly the stresses involved at club land and convinced AFLSE to implement his plan.

Now in his third year as the AFLSE Mentor and Coach Support Coordinator, Clinnick is thrilled to be backing up after a very rewarding first two years in the role.

“I think the program has been enormously successful in its first two years, creating a real bond and a support mechanism for all coaches in the region,” Clinnick said, before explaining the vulnerabilities that some coaches feel.

“It’s a tough industry and a really tough job being a coach, the expectation is there that you know everything, but the reality is that coaches are learning on the run as well.”

Bookings for the following sessions are essential and can be accessed through Coach.AFL

All sessions are allocated four coaching accreditation points.

Session 1

Senior Coaches and Assistant Coaches

Wednesday April 17, 6pm to 8pm

Frankston Bombers FC, Baxter Park, Frankston

Speakers: Jamie Mollo (Red Hill) and Aaron Pacey (Tyabb)

Session 2

Coaching Coordinators/Youth Coaches

Monday May 20, 6pm to 8pm

Casey Fields, Cranbourne

Speakers: Dandenong Stingrays

Session 3

All Regional Coaches

Monday June 24, 6pm to 8pm

Venue: TBC

Key Speaker: Beau Vernon (Phillip Island)