MFA Coaching Spotlight: Sophie Alchin and Josh Duncombe (Wilton Warriors Football Club)

Our latest MFA Coaching Spotlight shines a light on two outstanding community leaders: Sophie Alchin and Josh Duncombe from Wilton Warriors Football Club. Both are deeply involved in multiple aspects of club life and bring unwavering commitment, energy, and heart to everything they do. Their shared passion for supporting local footballers makes them true role models, both within their club and the wider Macarthur footballing community.

Sophie Alchin - Coach of U6 Girls Purple

Sophie brings a wealth of experience and energy to her coaching role with the U6 Girls at the Warriors. As both a player (currently with Wilton’s All Age Women’s team) and a developing coach, Sophie leads by example and is passionate about helping young players enjoy the game and build confidence.

Having played since she was six years old, Sophie draws on her personal experience with a variety of coaching styles throughout her junior years.

“When I was younger, having a positive role model for a coach really helped me,” she shares. “That shaped how I coach now, I want to be that same support for the girls I work with.”

While still early in her coaching journey, Sophie is already committed to her growth, working several days a week in a coaching capacity and looking to complete her formal coaching courses in the near future.

She focuses on making sessions fun and engaging, always aiming to see her players smiling and building friendships.

“At this age, it’s all about keeping it simple, having energy, and showing patience,” she says. “You have to be involved, motivating, and create a space where teamwork and fun come naturally.”

Her favourite part of coaching?

“The look on their faces when they score a goal, and that moment they high-five me on the sideline. You can’t beat that!”

Josh Duncombe: Coach of U5 Gold

A true club champion, Josh wears many hats at Wilton Warriors FC, coaching the U5 Gold team, volunteering behind the scenes, and even sponsoring the club. His passion for football and community is infectious, and his generosity continues to uplift everyone around him.

Josh’s coaching journey began with his son’s entry into the game, a moment that inspired him to make a bold change in his own life.

“It was always a dream of mine to coach my son,” he says. “So I changed career paths to make it happen.”

Though new to coaching, Josh dove in wholeheartedly. He completed his MiniRoos Coaching Course at the start of the season, which gave him the foundation to better structure sessions and understand how to work with younger players.

“The biggest challenge has been getting U5s to listen and understand,” he admits. “Patience has been key, it takes time for them to learn. But we’re seeing real improvement already, and the parents and grandparents are noticing too.”

Josh focuses on being present, encouraging, and always involved with the players, emphasising effort, skill development, and creating an environment that makes kids want to return to football year after year.

“Keeping the kids happy and supported is what it’s all about. I just love being out there helping the community and seeing the players grow.”

Together, Sophie and Josh embody the heart and soul of grassroots football. Whether it’s Sophie creating joyful, confidence-building moments for her young girls, or Josh blending coaching with community support, their efforts are helping shape the culture of Wilton Warriors FC.

“The vibe around this club is pretty incredible,” Josh says—and with volunteers like these two, it’s easy to see why.

We are proud to share Sophie and Josh’s stories and extend our heartfelt thanks for their contributions, on the pitch and behind the scenes. Their dedication and spirit continue to make a lasting impact at Wilton and across the broader Macarthur footballing community.