In this week’s MFA Coaching Spotlight, we turn our attention to two inspiring parent coaches from Douglas Park Wilton Football Club – Emma Nile and Matt Borg (pictured with team manager Olivia Day). These volunteers exemplify the power of leading with kindness, creating inclusive, supportive environments where players can grow not only as footballers but as people.
Emma and Matt are shining examples of what makes grassroots football so special, parents stepping up to give their time, energy, and care to ensure young players have the best football experience possible.
Emma Nile - Coach of U9 Girls
As both a player in the Razorbacks All Age Women’s team and coach of the U9 Girls, Emma is deeply committed to building a more inclusive, positive football community, particularly for women and girls.
Her coaching ethos is grounded in kindness and compassion, creating a space where players feel safe to be themselves, try new things, and build confidence through play.
“I want to help young girls be themselves,” Emma explains. “Inclusivity is the most important thing—making sure all girls, no matter their background, feel valued and part of the team.”
Drawing on her own experience growing up with a range of coaching styles, Emma says having a positive role model as a coach helped shape the way she now leads.
“Being a player myself helps me be a better coach. I always make sure the girls are having fun, learning new skills, and feel supported, even when they make mistakes. It’s about encouraging them to try again.”
Emma focuses on creating a strong team culture through little things that make a big impact, ensuring all players get lots of touches on the ball, listening actively, and fostering a sense of belonging.
“My goal is to make every player feel included and heard. Building that safe environment where they can express themselves is so important.”
Her favourite moments come from watching her players grow in confidence and teamwork.
“Seeing them pass to each other more, celebrate goals, and smile after a great play - that’s what it’s all about.”
Emma also acknowledges the positive culture at Douglas Park Wilton FC.
“The club has such a supportive group, especially when it comes to helping women and girls become their best selves, in and out of football.”
And there’s no doubt Emma herself is playing a big part in making that happen.
Matt Borg - Coach of U12 Boys
Matt Borg is another standout coach at Douglas Park Wilton FC, leading the U12 Boys team with a calm, thoughtful approach rooted in experience and teamwork.
A lifelong footballer, Matt now brings his passion into coaching and is especially proud to share the experience with his son.
“I just love being around young players and helping them develop. It’s even more special that I get to coach my son, too.”
Matt was nominated for DPW FC Coach of the Year in the 2024 season, a reflection of his commitment to creating fun, positive, and team-focused sessions.
“Listening to the players and building camaraderie is really important to me. I want them to enjoy the game while learning and improving together.”
His coaching philosophy is centred on teamwork and structured play.
“I love seeing them use the full width of the field, passing and working together in both defence and attack. That’s what I try to bring out in every session.”
Matt also credits his collaboration with team manager Olivia Day as a big part of their team’s success.
“Olivia and I work really well together. She’s an absolute legend, handling all the admin, helping set up sessions, and making everything run smoothly.”
Like all coaches, Matt faces challenges, managing substitutions and game time fairly, but he says having supportive parents and a strong team dynamic makes all the difference.
“When the boys win and you see those big smiles - that’s the best part. Olivia and I are both so proud to be part of creating those moments.”
Together, Emma, Matt, and Olivia are incredible examples of community leadership. Whether it’s creating inclusive spaces for girls or fostering teamwork and growth in young boys, they lead with heart and humility both on the pitch and behind the scenes.
We are proud to highlight their contributions in this week’s spotlight and thank them for the positive impact they continue to make at Douglas Park and across the broader Macarthur footballing 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!
