mattmacarthur

MFA Coaching Spotlight: Jarkko Matikainen (St Mary’s Eaglevale Soccer Club)

This week, our MFA Coaching Spotlight takes us to St Mary’s Eagle Vale Soccer Club, where we meet Jarkko Matikainen, coach of the Under 8 Girls Pink team and a shining example of how one parent’s passion can positively shape a football club.

When his daughter Ella’s team needed a coach, Jarkko didn’t hesitate to step up. What started as a simple act of support quickly evolved into something much greater. Not only is Jarkko now coaching with energy and enthusiasm, but he has also joined the club’s committee and taken on the role of Junior Coaching Coordinator, helping to guide and inspire other volunteer coaches across the club.

“I wanted to help them,” he says. “I love the game—and I want the kids to love it too.”

Jarkko brings a fun, inclusive energy to his training sessions. Known by his players as an engaging and supportive coach, he places equal value on enjoyment and development.

“Kids need to have lots of fun while learning the basics of football,” he explains. “It’s great to see them challenge themselves, and I’m always trying to challenge myself too, so I can keep becoming a better coach.”

His sessions are designed around what his players need most. By taking the time to speak with each child and tailor activities to their development, Jarkko ensures every player feels involved, valued, and supported.

In his first year of coaching, Jarkko completed both the MiniRoos and Foundation of Football coaching courses. These helped him gain confidence and structure, with a key takeaway being the importance of clear communication and keeping things simple when coaching the next generation.

“I’ve learned that listening to the kids, communicating clearly, and keeping things simple is what really matters. The coaching courses helped me structure sessions better and connect with other coaches too.”

He also reflects honestly on his early mistakes of trying to do too much or overcomplicating drills and how that experience helped him grow.

“Now, I always make time for each player. That’s the key to making sure they all feel involved and enjoy the game.”

In just one season, Jarkko has gone from a first-time coach to a valued committee member and mentor for others. As Junior Coaching Coordinator, he now supports fellow volunteers by sharing the insights and lessons he’s gained over the past year.

“It’s great to be able to help other coaches with things I’ve learned. We all want to make football the best experience possible for the kids.”

Jarkko’s favourite part of coaching? Watching his players step out of their comfort zone and rise to challenges.

“We’re a small team, but the girls aren’t afraid to take on the bigger sides,” he shares proudly. “Seeing them succeed in something they’ve been struggling with is incredibly rewarding. I just want them to never give up.”

From parent to coach to committee leader, Jarkko exemplifies what community football is all about—supporting players, building confidence, and inspiring others along the way.

Thank you, Jarkko, for everything you bring to our game.

If you're part of a club in the MFA and would like to nominate a coach to be featured in our MFA Coaching Spotlight series, we’d love to hear from you.

Please contact Football Development Manager, Matt Rootsey, at matt@macarthurfootball.com.au.

Let’s continue to celebrate the incredible coaches shaping our football community!

MFA Coaching Spotlight: Jazmin Murray and Rhys Gorissen (Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club)

In this week’s edition of the MFA Coaching Spotlight, we turn our attention to Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club. Local coaches Jazmin Murray and Rhys Gorissen are helping to inspire the next generation of players and show a strong commitment to providing dedication, leadership and impact to players within their Under 8's and Under 12's teams respectively. Their stories continue to highlight the incredible dedication that lives at the heart of grassroots football across Macarthur.

Jazmin Murray: U8 White Coach at Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club

Jazmin is the dedicated coach of the U8 White team at Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club. What began as a simple desire to support her son Nixon’s interest in football soon evolved into something much more meaningful.

“At first, Nixon just wanted to play, and somehow... I became the coach,” Jazmin recalls with a laugh. “It just happened and now, I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Far from the sidelines, Jazmin is redefining what it means to be a “football mum”, leading by example, building confidence in young players, and showing that passion and heart are all it takes to make a difference.

For Jazmin Murray, coaching goes far beyond drills and match days, it's about heart.

“Coaching is all about fun, encouragement, and building confidence,” she shares. “I want the kids to feel happy, safe, and like they truly belong.”

Her coaching philosophy centres on growth over glory. While many may focus on the final score, Jazmin keeps her eyes on what truly matters: kindness, effort, and those often-overlooked small victories.

“It’s not about winning, it’s about learning,” she says. “I focus on kindness, effort, and massively celebrating the little wins. Those small steps matter more than the scoreboard.”

Jazmin’s journey into coaching is deeply personal. Her son is neurodivergent and has often experienced different treatment from his peers, receiving less encouragement and positive reinforcement, leaving him feeling disheartened. Witnessing this inspired Jazmin to create a space where all children could feel seen, supported, and empowered.

“It’s not just about supporting kids like Nixon,” she explains. “It’s about helping all kids understand each other, to raise a team that includes, supports, and lifts everyone up.”

She teaches inclusion and empathy through simple but powerful everyday actions: encouraging friendships, asking players to help struggling teammates, and reminding them that we all learn differently and that’s more than okay.

Known by her players as a “calm and gentle leader,” Jazmin makes it her mission to be someone the kids can trust. One of her most memorable moments came when a quiet, reserved player, who had barely spoken all season, asked if they could be captain for the day.

“That moment brought me to tears,” she says. “It showed me they felt safe, confident, and like they belonged. That’s when I realised coaching is so much bigger than just football.”

She creates this supportive environment by modelling the behaviours she hopes to inspire, respect, kindness, and patience, and by handling every teachable moment with care.

“When someone does something great, like helping a teammate or showing good sportsmanship, I call it out and praise it. If someone’s behaviour needs correcting, I do it gently and privately, never to embarrass them. I believe in teaching, not punishing. The goal is always to help them grow.”

As a parent of a child with additional needs, Jazmin brings an incredible depth of empathy and patience to her coaching. She has a keen awareness of quieter players or those who may be struggling and ensures they are never overlooked.

From themed training sessions like 'Crazy Sock Day' and 'Superhero Night' to team-building activities like ninja warrior obstacle courses, botanical garden picnics, and post-training pizza nights, Jazmin works tirelessly to make football a fun, inclusive and memorable experience for every child on her team.

Jazmin’s contributions have made a lasting impression within her club. Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club President, Natasha Gomes, spoke highly of the impact she has had on her players and the broader team culture.

“Jazmin goes above and beyond for her team,” Tash shared. “She brings an incredible level of commitment to player development, creates a positive team environment, and leads with empathy and integrity. Her dedication, leadership, and influence as a coach are nothing short of inspiring.”

At Macarthur Football Association, we are incredibly proud of the work Jazmin is doing. She’s not only making a difference at her club, she’s setting an inspiring example for the wider Macarthur football community, especially for fellow mums and women in coaching.

Rhys Gorissen: U12B Coach at Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club

Rhys is the coach of the U12 Boys team at Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club, and another inspiring example of a parent stepping into a coaching role to uplift not only his own child but an entire team of young players. Praised for his “unwavering commitment to the development of his players,” Rhys consistently goes above and beyond to support both their athletic and personal growth.

As a lifelong footballer who started playing at the age of three, Rhys has always had a deep love for the game. So when the opportunity arose to coach his son’s team, he didn’t hesitate to raise his hand. Since then, his passion has been evident in everything he does, from organising extra training sessions to providing players with the tools and encouragement they need to thrive.

“I want to help players grow and be more confident in themselves,” Rhys says. “Not just in football but in life.”

Rhys’ influence stretches far beyond the pitch. He focuses on building self-esteem and a genuine love for the game, creating an environment where players feel motivated, supported, and excited to keep showing up.

“I’m very encouraging with all the players,” he says. “It’s about helping them enjoy the game and want to keep playing.”

His favourite moment this season? Watching his team’s transformation, from early struggles to becoming a competitive, cohesive unit.

“We weren’t winning many games at first, but now we’re holding our own and more importantly, I’m seeing growth in every single player.”

Rhys’s coaching style blends practical instruction with a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration. He closely observes games each week to understand what his players need, and then tailors sessions with purpose.

“Demonstration is a big key—I show them what I want to see. It helps them visualise and understand,” he explains.

He also champions connection and teamwork.

“Every session, I encourage players to talk to one another. I want them to ask, ‘Can we do this together?’ It builds trust and cohesion.”

Perhaps most importantly, Rhys makes sure his players understand the “why” behind what they’re learning—empowering them to think critically, problem-solve, and take ownership of their development.

Rhys is committed to long-term growth over short-term wins. He recognises that each child is on their own journey and adapts his coaching to suit individual learning styles, abilities, and personalities.

He’s a mentor, a motivator, and a role model. Someone who doesn’t just teach football, but inspires players to strive for their best on and off the field.

Rhys embodies what it means to be a great parent coach—invested not only in his own child’s development but in helping every player fall in love with football and enjoy the experience of being part of a team.

Together, Rhys and Jazmin represent the very best of Campbelltown Uniting Church Soccer Club. Their passion, dedication, and genuine care for their players are what make grassroots football so special.

We’re proud to shine a spotlight on both of them in this series and extend our heartfelt thanks for all they do. It’s a privilege to support their coaching journey and watch their continued impact within the Macarthur football community.

If you're part of a club in the MFA and would like to nominate a coach to be featured in our MFA Coaching Spotlight series, we’d love to hear from you.

Please contact Football Development Manager, Matt Rootsey, at matt@macarthurfootball.com.au.

Let’s continue to celebrate the incredible coaches shaping our football community!

MFA Coaching Spotlight: Julie Louise Katsogiannis, Bailie Spiteri and Noah Howard (Ingleburn Eagles SC)

In this week’s edition of the MFA Coaching Spotlight, we turn our attention to Ingleburn Eagles Soccer Club, where three passionate coaches are helping shape the next generation of footballers — Julie Louise Katsogiannis, and co-coaches Bailie Spiteri and Noah Howard. These coaches are united by their commitment to development, teamwork, and leading by example. Their stories highlight the incredible dedication that lives at the heart of grassroots football across Macarthur.

Julie Louise Katsogiannis: Coach of Ingleburn Eagles SC U9 MSAP Team

Julie Katsogiannis is a standout grassroots coach leading the Eagles’ U9 MSAP team. Known for her passion, patience, and unwavering dedication, Julie plays a vital role in guiding young players through their foundational years. She is deeply driven by a desire to teach, support, and mentor her team - not just in football, but in essential life skills that extend well beyond the pitch.

Throughout her training sessions, Julie consistently models the positive behaviours she hopes to see in her players. As she puts it, “I try to give players confidence,” and she brings that philosophy to life by encouraging them to take chances, like having a shot on goal, and to keep trying even when things don’t go to plan. Her ability to instil belief in her players fosters a supportive and uplifting environment, clearly reflected in the strong morale and team spirit she cultivates.

Julie’s coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in teamwork. She finds joy in “Seeing players play as a team and make as many passes as they can,” highlighting her belief in shared effort and connection on the field. Her approach is centred around encouraging players to give their best every time they train or play, while also focusing on personal growth. A regular challenge she sets for her players is to use their non-dominant foot - pushing them to step outside their comfort zones and build well-rounded skills.

Positivity is a core value in Julie’s coaching approach. As she puts it, she believes in “Always being positive for them to keep trying each session and each game,” fostering resilience and a love for learning among her young players. Her commitment to continuous improvement is evident in her own development, she actively prepares for sessions and seeks out new knowledge, crediting the Foundation of Football coaching course with helping her become a more effective and confident coach.

For Julie, the most rewarding part of coaching the Under 9s is “Seeing the players’ excitement when they work as a team and how they played, no matter what the result is.” Through her dedication, positivity, and focus on teamwork, Julie not only builds strong, capable players but also serves as a powerful role model for young female athletes and aspiring coaches across the Macarthur community.

Bailie Spiteri and Noah Howard: Co-Coaches of Ingleburn Eagles SC U11 MSAP Team

Bailie Spiteri is a dedicated player from Ingleburn Eagles SC U16 Division 1 side who generously gives back to his club by coaching the U11 MSAP team. His leadership, initiative, and commitment to youth development make him a standout role model at the club.

Bailie’s motivation for coaching is simple yet powerful: “To get players to learn new skills” and help them grow. In his sessions, he focuses on instilling “Discipline and respect so players pay attention and try to execute” a standard that reflects both his values and his impact on the team.

Teamwork is at the heart of Bailie’s coaching philosophy. He encourages his players to “Complete as many passes as often as they can,” and emphasises listening and maintaining a positive attitude toward the game and each other. Leading by example is a key part of his coaching style.

Coaching has also helped Bailie grow personally. He shared that “It has showed me more ways to get better outcomes for players,” and he regularly draws on his own experiences as a player to help his young team understand what lies ahead. One of his early challenges was “Expressing my ideas to a player and them being able to execute,” but through persistence and learning, he continues to refine his communication and leadership.

His favourite moment so far? “Our first ever game together when we scored a lot of goals.” It’s clear that Bailie’s enthusiasm and guidance are helping the U11 MSAP team thrive.

Noah Howard, also a player from the Eagles U16 Division 1 team, shares the sideline with Bailie as a co-coach of the U11 MSAP side. Off the field, Noah’s commitment to coaching reflects his strong leadership and passion for helping younger players develop.

Noah is motivated by a big-picture goal: “To get more players noticed around the world and be a part of their journey.” He brings a thoughtful and supportive approach to training, encouraging “A healthy mind and to keep trying if they make mistakes.”

His coaching philosophy focuses on player growth, encouraging kids to “Relax in situations and try to make the best decisions they can.” Passion for the game is a non-negotiable value for Noah, who says, “Showing passion every session and match” is something he strives to instil in every player. Like Bailie, he leads by example and sees coaching as a chance to grow himself as well: “It has shown me how to be a better role model for younger players.”

Drawing from his playing experience, Noah enjoys “Getting the players to shine and try things that older players may do.” One challenge he’s worked hard to overcome is “The kids losing focus when trying to demonstrate a skill,” which has pushed him to make sessions more interactive and engaging.

Noah’s proudest moments come when “Players ask questions to see if they are improving or not,” showing their eagerness to learn and grow under his guidance.

Together, Bailie and Noah are shining examples of young players giving back to the game. Through their passion, leadership, and commitment, they’re not only developing skills in their players — they’re inspiring the next generation of Eagles.

If you are part of a club in the Macarthur region and would also like to nominate a coach to feature as part of this MFA Coaching Spotlight series, please reach out to Football Development Manager, Matt Rootsey on matt@macarthurfootball.com.au

MFA Coaches Spotlight: Kirsty Lee Fox and Graeme Hughes (Macarthur Magic)

In the next installment of our MFA Coaching Spotlight, this week we visited Macarthur Magic Special Needs Football Club and met with Kirsty Lee Fox and Graeme Hughes.

Kirsty Lee Fox: on-field coach, committee member and junior program coordinator at Macarthur Magic SNFC

Kirsty Lee Fox has been an on field coach for 4 years with Macarthur Magic. She is also a committee member and junior co-ordinator.

Kirsty is an energetic and eccentric part of the club who demonstrates a vibrant personality. She portrays these qualities through her various roles at Macarthur Magic.

Over that time she has become a valued and much loved part of Magic on filed coaches, and now has her two children participating in our inclusive soccer program. Kirsty emphasises on “inclusivity, fun and lots of smiles” as key components to her coaching at Macarthur Magic.

Kirsty states “Getting to know each child so we can alter activities based on their individual needs” is a core value to the clubs coaching style. These are important values and beliefs that Kirsty portrays at Macarthur Magic.

Kirsty’s motivation to be involved at the club is “It’s a safe space for her kids and watching them thrive”. Furthermore, Kirsty values the importance of having her kids involved in Macarthur Magic as her kids get to have a normal childhood, meet new friends and play the game they love.

In recent years Kirsty has also taken on a leadership role at the club joining their club committee and coordinating their Junior Program for players aged 6-9 years. A key factor to Kirsty’s leadership style is being able to be adaptive to different situations that may arise on their game days. This is reflected through her characteristics of being open-minded and thinking on the run which is influenced by her experiences of having her own children on the autism spectrum.

Kirsty does a fantastic job leading a group of on-field volunteers who deliver our junior program, which covers the largest group of players in the club. Kirsty also gets the parents involved to help, which creates a more inclusive environment at the club.

Kirsty’s favourite experience working with Macarthur Magic has been “watching kids thrive and hit milestones when they thought they couldn’t do it”.

She regularly supports the club in many other ways such as player registration days, and leading their club at events such as Football 4 All Gala day and at Macarthur FC on-field activations. Kirsty is an important and valued member of the club as has greatly impacted Macarthur Magic SNFC.

Graeme Hughes: on-field coach and life member of Macarthur Magic SNFC

Graeme Hughes has been a volunteer coach since the foundation of Macarthur Magic SNFC 13 years ago. Over the years, Graeme has contributed tremendously to our club as an on-field coach.

Graeme is a passionate coach and focuses on developing strong relationships with all players and families. This influences his coaching style by emphasising the value of respect, and integrating it in his practices.

Graeme has had a huge impact on the players, in particular their senior players, where he has led the coaching effort, establishing fantastic relationships with the players and families. Graeme’s passion and drive positively impact the culture of the club.

Giving children an opportunity to play football motivates Graeme to coach at Macarthur Magic SNFC. Graeme’s favourite part about being involved at Magic is “Seeing the kids enjoy themselves”. Graeme states that “Being allowed to coach at Macarthur Magic for 13 years” has been his favourite football experience.

Graeme has noted a significant improvement in the players' social skills compared to when he first joined the club. Graeme also acknowledged the committee’s support, stating that “the committee has been very supportive as player numbers have increased from 22 to 156.”.

Additionally, Graeme loves sharing his football coaching knowledge and has adapted it to match the inclusive nature of the Macarthur Magic SNFC program. Graeme creates an inclusive environment by “getting all players together and saying good morning to all and everyone high fives each other”. This creates bonds between players and improves team cohesion.

Graeme says “fun, fun, fun while learning new football skills” are the values that are most important to his coaching style. This aligns with his core principles of coaching and reflection through his practices.

Over the years Graeme has made many valuable off field contributions including leading the field set up each week, assisted with fundraising efforts and he served on the club's original committee. This shows his range of various attributes and the impact he has on the club.

In 2022 Graeme was awarded the clubs third Life Membership for his outstanding and sustained service to Macarthur Magic. He described the feeling “I was over the moon and still don’t think I deserved it but I am very humbled and honoured”.

MFA Coaching Spotlight: Max Ormerod (Burragorang District Soccer Club)

Introducing our MFA Coaching Spotlight

Throughout the course of the season, we will be visiting all 26 clubs in our region and shining a light on the coaches who are helping to develop our next generation of players and a love of football amongst all of our participants!

First up, we visited Burragorang District Soccer Club and spoke to U13's Girls Coach and Club Coaching Coordinator, Max Ormerod about his experience in football.

Max Ormerod: U13's Girls Coach/ Club Coaching Coordinator at Burragorang District Soccer Club

Max Ormerod has been a dedicated member of Burragorang District Soccer Club (BDSC) since 2011, playing his way through the age groups within the club. Max’s journey with Macarthur football has led him to become a coach for the U13s Girls team, and is also a coach co-ordinator.

Max is a dynamic and enthusiastic coach, who is highly driven and motivated to develop players. Max prioritises effort and respect as core values to his coaching style, and describes himself as a player-centred coach, who always puts the players first.

At the age of 16, Max expressed his interest in coaching, and worked as an assistant coach with Burragorang's then U14 team and again in 2023 with the same team in U15. Max then requested to coach the U13 Girls team in 2024.

Max went and completed his Foundation of Football qualification to give himself and the team a solid foundation of success. In the off season, Max wanted to develop himself even more and went and completed his C Diploma coaching qualification.

At Burragorang's AGM Max was nominated to be BDSC Coaches Coordinator, and Max accepted the role. Max has developed training programs for our MiniRoo Coaches and is spending time working with the coaches at their training sessions, as well as still being the coach for the U13 Girls in 2025.

Paul Ashman is a coach that influenced Max’s coaching philosophy and coaching style. Max claimed that Paul showed him that “simplicity addressing situations with player is very effective”. Paul also taught Max how to treat players with respect, and this has been a core principle in Max’s coaching.

One factor that motivates Max to coach is, watching the players develop and seeing them smile when they come off the field. This aligns with his philosophy of “enjoyment and development”. Max designs fun sessions to engage the players to grow their skills. In practice, Max states “these sessions relate to a core skill and game scenario, and we work them out together”.

Max worked with the team and developed these players to understand the aspects of the game; from basic skills, positioning and team work, these girls started to flourish under his guidance.

Max’s favourite experiences working with the U13s Girls team was seeing the players’ smiles after winning their first game, and described the feeling as “something I will remember for a long time”.

Overcoming barriers such as, opportunity for coaching whilst living in a remote area and being required to travel a lot, Max has pursued his passion for coaching and has found a lot of success. Max was the Troy Betts Memorial Award recipient for 2024, for his efforts during the 2024 season. This award is for a member of BDSC who goes above and beyond for the club in the season.

Max is an asset to Burragorang District Soccer Club and a highly sought after coach for many age groups. BDSC would like to acknowledge him within the MFA to show that the club and members appreciate him and all that he does for our small but mighty club.