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

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.