Naomi Turnbull is a recent recipient of the FA ‘C’ Licence Scholarship. The scholarship awards coaches with the technical knowledge of football, as well as the understanding of The Principles of Play and the fundamentals of coaching, “I’m looking forward to doing the C Licence course to further my skills”, says Turnbull.
The scholarship has opened up a new pathway that Turnbull never imagined herself to walk down, “I wasn’t considering completing a ‘formal’ coaching development course until the opportunity came forward with the scholarship and information about the licensing qualifications.
“The connection that I’ve made with other female coaches and witnessing the growth of our coaching gave me the confidence for the upcoming season”.
Turnbull believes that coach education programs, like the C Licence, will see a higher level of community players whilst maintaining the social and ‘spirit’ of community football.
Better late than never
Upskilling coaches who are parents will give them the confidence to take on the role of coaching. Turnbull hasn’t always played football, “I’ve only been in football for about five years now.” She joins the increasing number of women who join the game in their adulthood, “I began to take an interest in coaching football when my kids started to play two years ago”.
Now, Turnbull is leading a team herself, “last football season I coached with two U13 teams, a girls and mixed team, along with two other coaches.”
Continuing her development as a coach
Over the next five years, Turnbull wants to maintain her C-Licence through ongoing skills development, “I want to eventually move to become an NPLW Football Club for our many skilled young football players.”
The C Licence Scholarship has been an incredible opportunity for Turnbull’s personal development as a coach as she watches her players grow older and more serious about increasing their skill level. “I always want to give them the best I can,” says Turnbull.
NSW Football Legacy Program
The Women in Football Scholarship Program was launched with the objective of growing female participation at all levels of the game. Working to upskill female officials, coaches and club administrators - participants have access to a range of education and development opportunities.
The Women in Football Scholarships are part of the NSW Football Legacy Program - a $10 million investment from the NSW Government. The program seeks to support female football through new community facilities, participation initiatives, development programs as well as tourism and international engagement.
You can get involved in NSW Football Legacy Program opportunities here.
