St Kilda Football Club is thrilled to announce the appointment of 2011 WAFL premiership Coach Simon McPhee from Claremont Football Club as a full-time Development Coach.
McPhee, along with former West Coast Eagles ruckman Jaymie Graham, and current St Kilda Assistant Coach Paul Hudson, have been appointed Development Coaches for the newly unveiled Saints Player Academy.
Based upon highly successful Academy models developed by top European football clubs, the Saints Player Academy will be resourced with four full-time staff and will utilise the state-of-the-art facility at the Linen House Centre Frankston.
In what should be seen as a major coup for both the St Kilda and Sandringham Football Clubs’, McPhee has accepted the position of Senior Coach at Sandringham FC.
“Simon is a highly regarded coach, who not only knows how to win but has a wealth of coaching experience particularly with young, less experienced players,” explained St Kilda FC Head of Football Chris Pelchen.
“In the absence of a standalone VFL team, we see Sandringham playing an important role in a footballer’s pathway to the AFL. That’s why it’s important we make sure Sandringham has a coaching structure in place and resources at their disposal to help both Club’s achieve their objectives,” concluded Pelchen.
McPhee, who is renowned for his strong values, wonderful work ethic and excellent communication skills, is thrilled by the appointment.
“St Kilda is a large Club with proud traditions and I’m very excited about the opportunity which lies ahead.
“I’m impressed with Scott’s direction for the football department and the Club’s progressive approach to player development.
“I look forward to openly embracing my role as Senior Coach at Sandringham Football Club and helping the players representing both Sandringham and St Kilda reach their potential.”
Sandringham Football Club General Manager John Mennie said the Club was grateful for St Kilda Football Club’s support and assistance in this appointment.
“We are delighted to have secured Simon as our Senior Coach for the next two years. It’s a great coup for Sandringham and this appointment could not have been possible without the assistance of St Kilda Football Club.”
Jaymie Graham, who has experienced the highs and lows of being a professional footballer, will be responsible for the Leadership and Welfare within the Saints Player Academy.
Graham, 28, who has been courted by the West Coast Eagles, is looking forward to working with the Club’s youngsters with their personal development.
“This is an exciting opportunity for me, I’m very impressed with St Kilda’s new approach to player development and welfare.”
“Football is a tough industry and it’s important a player is armed with the tools they need, both mentally and physically, to deal with any obstacles or challenges they may face,” explained Graham.
Paul Hudson, a well-respected member of the St Kilda coaching staff, will be responsible for Skill Acquisition. He, along with Jaymie and the soon to be appointed Academy Director will also be Assistant Coaches of Sandringham Football Club.
