THE West Australian Football Commission has appointed experienced coach Rob Wiley as WA State 16s Head Coach following an extensive selection process involving a number of high quality candidates.
Wiley, who has playing and coaching experience at WAFL and AFL level, was previously involved with the State Academy as WAFC High Performance Coach from 2007 to 2010.
Prior to that he was a Skills Coach and Assistant Coach with the West Coast Eagles between 1992 and 2006 and Perth Football Club senior coach in 1988 and 1989. His playing career included 176 games for Perth, 95 for Richmond and 18 for West Coast.
WAFC High Performance Manager Craig Starcevich said Wiley was an outstanding candidate for the position and congratulated him on his appointment to this important development role.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better coach to guide and prepare our most talented young players as they take their formative steps along the talent pathway.
“The State 16s is a critical stage of development for our Academy players and a vital foundation period in potentially a three year phase. We are thrilled that Rob has accepted the role and look forward to the value he will bring to the role.
“It is our State’s strategic goal to elevate and enhance the pathway for our talented players in the 14-16 year age group in preparation for their first taste of the Academy system, while also recognising the increased opportunities for WA players at AIS level,” Starcevich said.
Wiley said he was looking forward to returning to the Academy system and imparting his experience and knowledge to players and coaches.
“Having been involved before, the State program certainly appeals to me. There are a lot of talented players and coaches out there and I am looking forward to being involved again,” he said.
“I will provide every opportunity I can for players and coaches to be given direction about what they need to aim for. The academy is a great experience for both and if I can help to educate the coaches it will only help the players get better as well.”
Wiley’s responsibilities as State 16s coach will include preparation, implementation, and attendance at 16s Academy training, including trial games and the competition period at the NAB AFL National Championships.
He will also attend training with each WAFL club’s 16’s program, observing players and providing feedback for coaches as required.
Other responsibilities will include reviewing the WAFL 16’s program, conducting coaching seminars and supporting WAFL 14’s to 16’s development coaches. He will also be involved with WAFL Level 1 and Level 2 Coaching Accreditation courses.
The 2012 NAB AFL National 16s Championship will be played from July 7 to 14 at Blacktown International Sportspark.
