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Indigenous coach Jason Williams, a Noongar man, has secured a development coaching role with the AFL club Port Adelaide, marking a significant stride in his coaching journey.
On Friday, the Cobras publicly disclosed that Williams had accepted an appointment with the Port Adelaide Football Club as a development coach for the upcoming 2024 season and beyond. The announcement was made following a thorough and thoughtful deliberation process.
The Bacchus Marsh club expressed a blend of emotions upon sharing the news with its members and supporters. The Cobras noted a sense of sadness stemming from the departure of an exceptional coach who had greatly contributed to the team's progress. However, this sentiment was coupled with immense pride, as the club acknowledged its role in fostering Williams' journey toward attaining a position at the highest echelons of the sport.
Reflecting upon the 2023 season, the Cobras recognized the profound impact that Jason Williams had on the team. His coaching philosophy and guidance not only reshaped players' perspectives about themselves but also cultivated an environment that spurred tremendous growth across the entire football program. Williams' influence empowered both seasoned players and emerging talents to surpass their own expectations, which translated into improved performance on the field.
Williams, in the club's official statement, shared his thoughts about the transition. He conveyed that while leaving the club sooner than anticipated was not part of his original plan when he accepted the role in November, he was content with the foundation they had collectively laid. His efforts were directed toward creating a club atmosphere that instilled a sense of affection and belonging among players. Williams expressed satisfaction in having achieved this goal with the help of numerous individuals from the local community.
Reflecting on his time with the playing group, Williams highlighted the reciprocal nature of his relationship with the players. He emphasized the mutual expectation of high standards and shared how this dynamic compelled him to refine his coaching approach. The challenges he encountered pushed him to become a more effective communicator, manage his emotions, and lead with empathy and love. Williams expressed gratitude for the growth these experiences brought to him as a coach.
Williams' journey, from his tenure with Bacchus Marsh to his new role at Port Adelaide, signifies his continued evolution in the world of coaching and his dedication to enhancing the sport at its highest levels. The news of Jason Williams' advancement in his coaching career as another Indigenous coach in the AFL aligns with a broader trend. Just recently, Richmond assistant coach Xavier Clarke, a Larrakia and Amrreamo/Marritjavin man, was shortlisted for the senior coaching position at the club. These developments underscore the increasing representation of Indigenous voices and perspectives within the Australian football landscape. Read the full article here.
Photo Courtesy National Indigenous Times
Courtesy Melton Moorabool Star Weekly
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