West Australian teachers were recognised for their outstanding work in Australian Football at the 2015 Woolworths AFL School Ambassador Awards night at Domain Stadium.

In front of a supportive crowd of BHP Billiton, West Coast Eagles, Fremantle Football Club, school and community football representatives the 35 finalists were acknowledged and seven category winners were announced:

• 2015 AFLSA Outstanding Service Award: Ray Barrett, Kiara College
• Most Outstanding Primary Woolworths AFL School Ambassador: Narelle Scott, Tuart Rise Primary School
• Most Outstanding Secondary Woolworths AFL School Ambassador: Austin Ward, Cecil Andrews Senior High School
• Outstanding First Year Woolworths AFL School Ambassador: Scott Minchin, Wanneroo Secondary College
• Outstanding Multicultural AFL Program: Brigit Wall, Tuart Rise Primary School
• Outstanding Indigenous AFL Program: Terry Pass, Gwynne Park Primary
• Outstanding Female AFL Program: Joe Kendall, Helena College

Sharon Wilson, Education Manager at the West Australian Football Commission addressed attendees, thanking principals, teachers and colleagues for supporting such an important program.

“Although the successful teachers, ideas and methods of delivery change year to year, the one constant is the message of opportunity through football,” she said. 

“All state football bodies reward and recognise Woolworths AFL School Ambassadors in various ways. Our most Outstanding Primary and Secondary AFLSAs are invited to the national function and an AFL finals series game in Melbourne. 

“The Outstanding Service Award winner is invited to the AFL Grand Final thanks to BHP Billiton Iron Ore the Principal Community Partner of the West Coast Eagles.” 

The Woolworths AFL Schools Ambassador Program aims to resource recognise and reward teachers who enhance football development in all levels and segments of education in Western Australia.

It encourages an alliance between schools and communities: to develop and promote Australian Football in the classroom and on the sporting field and provide guidance, planning and leadership to all school football stakeholders.

At a national level Mark Riddiford, AFL Schools and Education Manager sets the challenge of at least one AFLSA in every school. All registered teachers are eligible to become a Woolworths AFL School Ambassador. The WAFC provides training, equipment and support free of charge.