Northern Territory’s elite soccer program developing talent

As Territorians enjoy the Women’s World Cup, the next generation of Top End stars is already in the making.

As Matilda fever reaches new heights, Football Northern Territory are working on identifying and creating the next generation of soccer stars.

Former pro-footballer and FNT technical director John Tambouras is leading the North Australian Football Academy which is 14 weeks into its inaugural season – a program purpose-built to help young players reach their football potential.

“In terms of what we’re seeing from the boys and girls and their behaviours, it’s been absolutely brilliant,” Tambouras said.

“(The kids) train and play with us, and we give them feedback in terms of what they need to work on and where they need to go to become an elite footballer.”

A program focused on elite female and male footballers from age nine, Tambouras said the five-year program would provide juniors the “tools” to play at the highest level.

“Our nine-year olds are going to get the real benefit of this program because they’re going to be here for five years straight,” Tambouras said.

“When they finish this program they’ll be 14 and that will give us a clear indication of where these kids are at (compared to the rest of country).”

John Tambouras giving instructions at a coaching clinic in Alice Springs. Picture: Justin Raymond

With other states already having elite football programs, Tambouras said the Territory needed an elite player environment.

“I think it has to happen, definitely,” Tambouras said.

“When you look at other states they’ve got these elite player programs where talented players train and play together.”

“(That environment) creates a sense of urgency for players who dream of making it to the top.”

Hellenic AC’s 6-0 loss to NSW Inter Lions earlier this month put the standard of Territory football under fire, with Hellenic coach Dimi Galanopoulos declaring the Territory had “extra work to do”.

“Do we have the facilities (in the Territory) and do we have the sporting talent to excel? One hundred per cent we do,” Tambouras said.

Tambouras said he believed the Territory have the facilities and the talent to excel. Picture: NT Government.

“The Territory has an abundance of talent – it just comes to a certain time in (the players) development cycle where if the kids aren’t being tested, they’re never going to learn.”

Tambouras said he hoped the World Game would become the Territory’s next sporting objective.

“The ultimate goal is to produce a future Socceroo or Matilda,” he said.

“If (NAFA’s pathway) doesn’t come through, the best part is that they will go back to their clubs as senior players with all the tools.”