Newcastle Football appoint Coaching and Development Co-Ordinator

Newcastle Football is excited to announce that our new Coaching and Development Co Ordinator has been appointed.

Nicholas Fakes joins us in a full-time position to drive and lead our football programs.

At Community level, development recognises that players and coaches have a different outlook on where their football can take them.

It has been long overdue to see Newcastle Football and the joint Zones work with our Coaches and players to not only reinvigorate community development pathways, but to also establish football programs to cater for all levels and to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment that our game is renowned for.

Nick started his football journey at Valentine FC, before moving into the Macquarie Football Academy.

He then moved onto playing at NPL and NL1 level with Charlestown Azzurri and Cooks Hill.

His coaching roles commenced at Maitland FC in PYL, before moving into NPLW Senior programs at Azzurri, winning Premierships and Championships in 2024.

Nick holds a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Sports Management and Marketing, and, along with his Football Australia AFC Coaching qualifications, his administrative and communication skills will enable him to immediately drive programs and strategic direction commencing with our Community State Championship teams in July.

Nick ticks the mandated prerequisites for all new Newcastle Football appointments as someone who lives football.

He is a local, and he understands the demands and pleasure that Community Football can bring, and is especially mindful that Community Development requires mentoring and support for all skill levels.

Northern NSW Football has been closely aligned and invested in this appointment as Nick will work closely with the newly appointed roles in the other Zones and with the Technical team at NNSWF to create structure and opportunities at all levels for players and coaches.

At our AGM, your Board is committed to listening to our Members and addressing issues toward more development and refined coaching support at all levels.

Along with our announcement of Dilan Houston’s appointment, this role, and Nicks' appointment, show that Newcastle Football is investing in our Clubs and providing resourcing to enable stability and growth.

Please join me in welcoming Nick to the Newcastle Football team.