In this week’s MFA Coaching Spotlight, we shine a light on two inspiring coaches from Oran Park Rovers FC,Alexi and Skye, who are building more than just football skills. Through their leadership, passion, and belief in player development, they are creating environments where young athletes grow in confidence, character, and connection.
Both coaches are committed to more than just performance on the pitch. They believe in the power of football to shape good people — and that belief is reflected in how they coach every session.
Alexi - U13/3 Boys Coach
With over a decade of coaching experience, Alexi brings a unique combination of technical understanding and heartfelt passion to his role. For him, football is not only about skill, it’s about shapes, connection, and unity. He views every player as equally valuable and works tirelessly to ensure the team operates as one cohesive unit.
“It’s not the score I’m chasing, it’s the team working together.”
That belief was on full display during a recent game where Alexi’s side trailed 5–0 at halftime. Rather than focus on the scoreline, he encouraged the boys to focus on effort, connection, and improvement. His positivity lifted the team, a quality his players have come to deeply respect.
Alexi brings his passion into every detail of his coaching. He often gives his players "football homework," asking them to study players or teams from the past and reflect on how those athletes transformed attitudes and styles through the game. It’s a strategy not just to inspire but to educate and build football intelligence.
A strong believer in discipline and respect, Alexi leads by example. His players know there’s no swearing on or off the pitch, and yes, laps are involved if rules are broken. But everything he does is about helping the boys grow into not just better footballers, but better young men.
In sessions, Alexi often focuses on individual skill components and clearly explains how those link back to team development. He describes himself as a “1% coach”, constantly asking his players to be just a little better today than they were yesterday. It’s this mentality that’s created a culture of growth and dedication.
Having completed his Foundation of Football course and now working towards his C Diploma, Alexi is constantly seeking to learn and evolve. He values the chance to pick up new methods, tools, and perspectives to better serve his team.
“One of my proudest moments this season was when the boys got their first win, not just because of the result, but because of the way they played. It showed how far they’ve come.”
Skye - U8 Girls Purple Coach
For the past three years, Skye has been a guiding light for the U8 Girls at Oran Park Rovers FC, a coach whose care, commitment, and consistency have left a lasting impact on every player she’s worked with.
Even during her pregnancy last season, Skye continued to turn up to every session with energy, dedication, and a smile, a reflection of how deeply she cares about her team. It’s no surprise that for the girls, she’ll always be “Coach Skye,” no matter how many seasons pass.
Skye’s goal is simple but powerful: to help every player shine. She fosters a welcoming, encouraging environment where players feel safe to try, learn, and grow — even through mistakes. Her players are confident, connected, and most of all, having fun.
“I want them to enjoy the game, feel comfortable with me, and know that it’s okay to get things wrong — as long as they keep trying.”
With over 20 years of playing experience behind her, Skye had plenty of insight to bring when she stepped into coaching after her daughter started playing. But she didn’t stop there; she actively pursued learning through coaching education, completing her MiniRoos Certificate, Foundation of Football, and, most recently, her C Diploma.
“The courses helped me build structure into what I was already doing. They gave me clarity and helped me understand how to get the basics right.”
Skye is known for her approachable coaching style and her ability to build confidence in every player. Her training sessions are always centred around fun, energy, and team spirit, creating a space where her girls are excited to show up and reluctant to leave.
“My favourite moments are when the girls don’t want training to end, and when I see them keep pushing, even when the score isn’t in our favour.”
Through her leadership, Skye is not just developing footballers; she’s nurturing strong, resilient young people who know what it means to belong, support one another, and give their best.
Both Alexi and Skye are helping to build a positive coaching culture at the Rovers, one that celebrates learning, respect, and player wellbeing. Their dedication on and off the field is contributing to something bigger than just game-day results.
They are coaches who lead by example, value the little wins, and make every player feel seen. By doing so, they’re not only developing better footballers, they’re developing better people.
We’re proud to spotlight Alexi and Skye this week and thank them for their ongoing contribution to their club and the broader 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!
