ESFA Coaching and Development Officer, Louis Chaperon
The ESFA Schools Initiative aims to provide a fun football sessions to both public and high schools in the Eastern Suburbs.
The Schools Initiative is run by the ESFA Coaching and Development Officer, Louis Chaperon. Louis is a UEFA B-Licence and FFA qualified coach, with 15 years experience from grassroots to elite coaching, including State League and A-league Academy levels. Louis also runs the School Holiday Clinics.
The philosophy behind this initiative is to create a fun, learning environment for children of any ability to develop their social, motor and problem solving skills. Also, this is a great opportunity to promote an active and healthy lifestyle away from the computer. The initiative will have a number of structured sessions that can be delivered during "curriculum time" and provide pathways to promote an active lifestyle.
Currently, we have had coaching sessions at a number of schools in the Eastern Suburbs, including;
- Bondi Beach Public
- Bondi Public
- South Coogee Public
- Eastlakes Public School
The sessions have been a great success with a number of the schools interested in rolling out the initiative for a whole term in 2012.
Louis also recently attended the Sydney Children's Hosptial Party Day, giving the children to participate in a football skills workshop and enjoy a fun filled day. The Sydney Children's Hospital expressed their gratitude for our participation.
"The football skills workshop was a huge hit with the kids, all of whom were thrilled to be given some expert tips" - Marcela Polanco, Sydney Children's Hospital.
Our friends at Sydney FC have also come on board with the program, including player visits during the sessions with the players participating with the children, answering questions and signing autographs.
Additionally, there are opportunities for local businesses and corporations to be involved with these initiatives to promote healthy messages to children.
To find out how your business or school can get involved please contact Louis Chaperon on development@esfa.com.au.
Testimonials
"The Schools Initiative is certainly a great concept that tackles health issues as well as promoting the sport. There are obvious benefits to this scheme and I would not hesitate to recommend Louis to any school looking to get involved" - Matt Gallan, Bondi Beach Public.
"We have invited Louis to run fun sessions for Years 3 to 6 during their sports and activity time...The Children all had a great time and always look forward to Louis' sessions! It also has given a number of children who wouldn't hve played football before an opportunity to get involved" - Iliana Santopietro, Eastlakes Public School.
“Louis' passion for soccer (football) was evident through his exciting and engaging activities with the kids. He built a great rapport with them and they were all buzzing with excitement after their sessions. Louis was an excellent coach/ teacher for the children and a lot of them sparked an interest for the sport, after participating in the sessions" - Emily Toole, Bondi Public School.