The West Coast Eagles has joined forces with Central TAFE and the West Australian Football Commission to launch TAFE’s Football Development Centre.

The centre will provide participating students with an avenue to combine their favourite sport with their studies, gaining academic qualifications while completing work experience at either West Coast or the WAFC. The 12-month course will also include two football training sessions a week with WA’s top coaches.

West Coast schools program officer Kim Hannah says the partnership will produce benefits for all parties, particularly the students involved.

“This is great opportunity for students to take their passion for footy to another level and actually gain recognised certification.

“We look forward to sharing our knowledge with these students and getting them involved with the club at a grass roots level.”

Upon completion, students will hold a nationally recognised Certificate IV in Sport (development) and also be offered the chance to complete coaching and officiating qualifications in Australian football.