About
We are excited to welcome you to the third Coaching and Officiating Conference, hosted by the Australian Sports Commission, from March 18 to 20, 2025 (C&O2025), at the iconic GMHBA Stadium in Geelong. This year’s theme is ‘Connection’, highlighting how modern coaching and officiating methods are changing the way we experience sports, shape our environments and develop our organisations.
The role that coaches and officials play to create the right environments for participants have never been more important – at all levels of sport. At this conference, you’ll gain a deep understanding of what coaches and officials need to learn and grow. We’ll focus on building flexible and effective skills within a lively and ever-changing sports ecosystem. You’ll have the chance to explore new ideas, technologies and viewpoints that encourage agility, genuine teamwork and strong connections.
Together, we’ll build on our progress to clearly define what is needed for coaches, officials and participants to learn, thrive and feel a sense of belonging. This is your opportunity to be part of a community dedicated to advancing sports through innovation and collaboration.
Our MC
Rowie Webster - MC
A three-time Olympian and former Olympic Captain, Rowie Webster is a powerhouse in Australian water polo. As an AIS Generation 32 scholarship coach at the Victorian Institute of Sport, Rowie continues to shape the future of the sport, having previously led as Head Coach of the 18/U Australian National Team and Head Coach of the Victorian Phoenix.
Beyond coaching, Rowie is a respected athlete representative on both the Australian Olympic Team Athlete Committee and the Australian Institute of Sport Athletes Commission. She also serves as an Athlete 4 Hope ambassador, advocating for sport’s role in social change.
With over 300 international caps, Rowie is one of only four Australians to achieve this milestone. She has proudly represented Australia at both junior and senior levels, securing a bronze medal at the London Olympics, a Junior World Championship title, and recognition as one of the top three players in the world in 2013 and 2014.
A Life Member of Richmond Water Polo and Victorian Water Polo, Rowie’s legacy in the sport is undeniable.
Keynotes and facilitators
Jess Skinner
Coach and Pathways Strategy Manager, NRL Connection to place
Jess is a proud Barkindji (Aboriginal) and Ngāpuhi and Ngāti Hine (Māori) woman living in Trangie, Far West NSW, who achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by becoming the first female Head Coach of the Women's Indigenous All Stars team and the First Female to Head Coach the Australian Prime Ministers Women Nation Team. Additionally, she serves as the Assistant Coach for the Harvey Norman Jillaroos, Australia's women's rugby league team.
In 2019, she transitioned into elite coaching, serving as Assistant Coach for the Australian Women’s Prime Ministers XIII team and the inaugural Newcastle Knights NRLW team in 2021.
Currently, Jess holds the position of NRL Pathways Strategic Manager, where she assesses and creates effective pathways, identifying gaps for underrepresented groups in the game, collaborating with stakeholders to develop targeted programs, and consistently updating them to improve representation in NRL, NRLW, and semi-professional clubs.
Contributing over a decade of involvement in the sport, from grassroots to elite levels. Her crowning achievement came in 2022 when she was a part of the coaching staff who coached the Jillaroos team to victory in the World Cup.
Outside of her rugby league involvement, Jess is a dedicated mother of two children. She previously taught as a teacher with the NSW Department of Education in Trangie, NSW, for over a decade, holding a Bachelor of PhysEd. Jess actively serves on the boards of the Trangie Local Aboriginal Lands Council and the non-profit organisation THRIV3, where she plays a vital role in guiding youth and fulfilling cultural responsibilities within her community. Her passion is to promote her culture and create pathways for young people from remote areas to pursue their dreams and succeed in rugby league at the highest levels.
Danielle Laidley
Transgender and diversity advocate Embracing diversity
Danielle Laidley (birth name Dean Laidley) played 151 games for West Coast Eagles and North Melbourne football clubs, winning an AFL premiership with the Kangaroos in 1996. She became one of the youngest senior coaches ever at 36, coaching North Melbourne for 149 games across seven seasons from 2003 to 2009.
Building on her experience in training and developing people, Danielle moved into a leadership and management role with the Department of Justice.
She was diagnosed with gender dysphoria and is now an advocate for transgender people, raising awareness in a quest for acceptance of diversity. Danielle lives in Melbourne with her partner, Donna Leckie.
Steve Hocking
CEO, Geelong Cats Values based leadership
Now spanning the course of five decades, the breadth of Steve Hocking’s roles and experience, coupled with his fierce loyalty to our community, have made him one of the most formative and influential figures in the history of the Geelong Football Club.
The CEO of the Cats first arrived at Kardinia Park as a teenager in the 1980s, bright-eyed and resolute at the beginning of what would become an unforgettable 199-game career. During his time in the Hoops, Hocking played in two AFL Grand Finals and was awarded the club’s most determined player on four occasions.
Following his retirement from playing at the conclusion of the 1994 season, Hocking sought to apply his skills and expand his knowledge in private business. Thankfully, he made his return to the Cattery at the end of 2003 as match committee chairman, a welcome-back that precipitated a decades-long period of sustained success for the Geelong Football Club that continues today.
From 2004 until the end of 2017, Hocking held a variety of roles including Football Operations Manager, General Manager Team Performance, General Manager Commercial Operations and General Manager Football while the Cats won three Premierships and became the winningest team of the era.
Inevitably, AFL House came knocking for his talent and Hocking was appointed General Manager of Football for the AFL in late 2017. During his four years at headquarters, Hocking was responsible for the advancement of the AFL and AFLW competitions, leading in matters including the laws of the game, mental health, umpiring, talent pathways and the match review panel.
Geelong celebrated his homecoming when Hocking was announced as the next CEO of the Geelong Football Club at the end of 2021.
With a passion for unlocking high performance, unleashing human magic, and advancing all towards equity, since his return Hocking has overseen the Cats win the 2022 AFL Premiership in his first year at the helm, the establishment of the Cats AFLW team as a driving force in the expanding competition, and grown the Geelong’s Team of All to over 90,000 members for the first time in its history.
Leah Englund and Grace Gaby
Gymnastics Coach and Participant Participant centered coaching
For Leah Englund, gymnastics has been more than a sport—it’s been a lifelong passion and a platform for meaningful relationships. A former Level 10 gymnast who retired at 18, Leah has spent the past 23 years coaching athletes of all ages and abilities, from recreational programs to competitive male and female gymnasts.
As Head Coach of Zodiacs Gymnastics Club in Burnie, Tasmania, for nearly 15 years, Leah has helped shape a small club of 300 members on the northwest coast into a place of connection, achievement and belonging. Central to Leah’s coaching philosophy is the belief that participant-centered coaching is key to keeping people in sport—particularly through their teenage years and into adulthood. This philosophy is most evident in her 14-year coaching partnership with Grace, a gymnast whose story embodies resilience, connection and trust.
Leah has seen Grace through nearly every stage of life: high school, college, two university degrees and now her professional career as an emergency department nurse and paramedic. Together, they have shared triumphs—state titles, national medals, and even Australian Level 10 team selection—and overcome setbacks like injuries, health concerns and disappointments. Through it all, Grace’s continued connection and commitment to gymnastics is a direct reflection of Leah’s unwavering support, tailored approach and deep respect for her athletes.
Leah’s story is about more than medals or milestones; it’s about creating environments where athletes like Grace feel valued, seen, and empowered to pursue their potential. It’s a partnership built on a shared love for the sport, shared goals and mutual trust—proof of the powerful role a coach can play in retention, growth and lifelong participation in sport.
Ann Oodong
Media Manager, Football Australia Storytelling for influence
Born in Uganda and arriving in Australia as a six-year-old refugee, Ann Odong has emerged as an award-winning, globally respected storyteller, communicator and advocate for women’s sport.
Passionate about gender equality in sport for women and girls of all backgrounds, for 20 years Ann has tirelessly worked to elevate and amplify women’s voices. In 2008 she founded Australia’s groundbreaking first dedicated digital platform for women’s football, The Women’s Game, which she managed for a decade. The Women’s Game assisted in driving the growth of women’s football in Australia and its investigations instigated change in pay and conditions for athletes in the W-League. Off the pitch Ann worked to nurture and provide opportunities to up and coming female media professionals with several alumni from The Women’s Game employed in organisations including the ABC, Football Australia, The Guardian, ESPN, and Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
Ann joined Football Australia in 2018 as a key member of their successful bid to co-host the historic FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. In 2019 she transitioned to the Matildas becoming their media and PR lead where she has driven the visibility of the Matildas for the past five years to become one of Australia’s most recognisable and loved sporting teams.
Working with Carlee Millikin (GM of Women’s Football), she initiated the OUR GAME Media Program which aims to open doors and provide opportunities for women and non-binary persons to ensure that the push for gender parity in football is not limited to just on the pitch.
She has garnered global acclaim and in 2023 was named one of the eleven most influential people in global women’s football for the year in Relevent Sports’ Best XI, alongside Matildas captain, Sam Kerr. She was also awarded the Inaugural Grant Wahl Memorial Award for her services to women’s football.
In 2024 Ann was named in the NewsCorp Power 100 Most Influential Women in Sport and named the winner of Impactful Storytellers category in The Female Athlete Project Awards.
Delfina Shakespear
Match Official, A-League Officials as leaders
Delfina Shakespear balances her full-time role as a distinguished Program and Strategic Policy Manager in the Australian Public Service (APS) with her responsibilities as a High-Performance Match Official in the Australian A-league. With over 11 years of experience in the Australian Public Service (APS) and more than 15 years of officiating experience, including 11 years in the Ninja A-League ,, Delfina is a trailblazer in the field Delfina was the first woman from the ACT to achieve the milestone of 100 matches at the elite officiating level in Australia and the first woman to hold both ACT Men's and Women's NPL Referee of the Year titles in the same season (2019). Her extensive on-field experience has provided her with invaluable insights and a humanised perspective, which she brings to her leadership roles, including being the first female Vice President of the Professional Football Referees Association and a Board Director for Fearless Women ACT.
Delfina passionately advocates for the empowerment, equity, and opportunity for women and girls, both on and off the field. She volunteers her time as a mentor, educator, and administrator, providing strategic advice to Capital Football on refereeing and promoting opportunities for women to contribute and lead in sport governance. Striving for inclusivity and fair play, her leadership has positively impacted thousands within the sporting community.
Driven by a compelling mission to create a safer and more supportive environment for future generations, Delfina remains unwavering in her pursuit of gender equality and in ensuring young women and girls do not endure the challenges she faced. Thanks to her efforts on the recognition and respect for referees in the sport regardless of gender, all-women referee teams now regularly officiate senior matches in Canberra. Her strategic insight, coupled with her unwavering determination, has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2024 ACT Woman of the Year - Special Commendation Award for services to gender equity in sport, and being a 2025 ACT Australian of the Year - Local Hero Finalist for her gender equity advocacy in sport.
Delfina is a true trailblazer, an advocate, and a change-maker in the realm of sports and inclusive, safe environments within the sporting context.
Richard Colman
High-Performance Coach and Paralympian Community, mentoring and long-term development
Richard was born in 1984 with Spina Bifida and has been passionate about sport from a young age. Engaging in various sports before fully dedicating himself to athletics, Richard has built an impressive career as an elite para-athlete. He continues to stay active, playing wheelchair basketball in the Geelong league and incorporating swimming into his cross-training routine.
Richard began his athletics journey in 1995, quickly making strides in the sport. By 1996, he had secured a spot on his first state team for the Pacific School Games. His talent and determination saw him rise through the ranks, earning selection for major national and international competitions.
His international debut came in 2002 at the IPC World Athletics Championships in Lyon, France, where he won a bronze medal in the T53 400m. Two years later, at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games, Richard secured a gold medal in the T53 800m and a silver medal in the 4x100m relay. He continued his success in 2006 with a bronze medal in the T53 800m at the IPC World Athletics Championships in Assen, Netherlands. At the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games, he added a silver medal in the T53 200m and a bronze in the T53 400m to his collection. Over the course of his career, Richard has accumulated numerous medals and accolades, showcasing his dedication and excellence in para-athletics.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Richard has made a significant impact off the track. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Deakin University and has completed various other qualifications. In 2007, he made history as the first person in a wheelchair to umpire an AFL match, officiating as a goal umpire in the Geelong Football League.
Richard is deeply committed to community development, mentoring, and the long-term growth of sport. He dedicates countless hours to coaching and mentoring aspiring athletes, guiding them to achieve their dreams, no matter their circumstances. He regularly coaches at various locations across Victoria, fostering the next generation of athletes.
Always pushing boundaries, Richard became the first person in a wheelchair to travel down Bolivia’s famous Death Road during his 2014 post-season trip to South America. His adventurous spirit and determination continue to inspire others.
As an ambassador for multiple foundations and organizations, Richard champions inclusivity and resilience in sport and beyond. He remains focused on achieving his personal and professional goals, demonstrating that with determination, anything is possible. Through his journey, Richard encourages others to dream big, take chances, and believe in their potential.
2025 C&O Program
This program has been designed to provide attendees with the flexibility to engage in content that aligns with both their topics of interest and their learning needs. We encourage you to plan your day in advance, including scheduling meal and brain breaks, by using the ‘favorite’ function in our event app. Registered attendees will receive access details for the app to help personalise their experience.
Spotlight session: Introduction and Welcome – Kieren Perkins (Australian Sports Commission CEO) 9-9.20am
The ASC welcomes all attendees to the 2025 Coaching and Officiating Conference. We look forward to learning with you over the next three days.
Spotlight session: Welcome to country – Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation – 9.20-9.40am
We thank the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation for welcoming us to the beautiful lands of Wadawurrung Country.
Keynote: Connection to place to connect to others – Jess Skinner – 9.40-10.40am
Jess is a proud Barkindji and Ngāpuhi woman, who made history in 2024 as the first female Head Coach of the Women’s Indigenous All Stars team and the Australian Prime Ministers Women’s National Team. With over a decade of experience in rugby league, including coaching the Jillaroos to victory in the 2022 World Cup, Jess is passionate about promoting her culture and creating pathways for underrepresented groups in sport. We look forward to Jess' insights on the topic of 'Connection to place'.
The Journey of the Modern Approach – Kieren Perkins and the ASC Coaching and Officiating Team– 10.40-11.40am
Kieren Perkins, Australian Sports Commission CEO and the ASC Coaching and Officiating Team, will explore the role and broad impact of the Modern Approach to Coaching and Officiating since its launch in 2022. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for questions.
Modern Coaching in Practice – Australian Sailing – 11-11.40am
Australian Sailing will facilitate an interactive workshop to support attendees to implement modern development practices with a focus on shifting behaviour of coaches in community sport. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on problem solving and collaboration.
Supporting the volunteer coach and official – ASC Sport Programs – 11-11.40am
The ASC Sport Programs team will facilitate an interactive workshop to support attendees to consider specific implications and requirements relevant to the experience of coaches and officials in volunteering positions. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on problem solving and collaboration.
Giving officials license to use the Modern Approach – Rugby Australia - 11-12pm
Rugby Australia will explore opportunities to broaden both our perception of the role of officials and the practical role of officials in community sport, emphasising the impact officials can have on participant experiences when the Modern Approach is embedded. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group discussion and questions, with an emphasis on challenging mindsets, reinforcing learning and collaboration.
Walk and Talk: Helping officials make decisions under pressure – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 11.40-12.20pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will lead a guided light walk around the grounds GMHBA Stadium to consider and reflect on the topic of “Helping officials make decisions under pressure”. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on discussion and reflection.
Supporting positive experiences for officials with a disability - Kate Jenian, Desiree Jones and AIS Para Unit - 11.40-12.20pm
Kate Jenian and Desiree Jones, experienced match officials, will be supported by the AIS Para Unit to explore how organisations and individuals can create environments where officials with a disability thrive. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on collaboration, discussion and story telling.
Holistic approach to coaching and officiating in game development – Softball Australia – 11.40-12.40pm
Softball Australia will share their insights and lead an interactive workshop to support attendees to consider the role of coaches and officials in the context of broader game and sport objectives. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on problem solving and collaboration.
Influence of culture on participant experience - ASC Coaching and Officiating - 12.20-1pm
Coaches and officials have significant influence over culture within community sport. The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will facilitate a session to explore the impact of culture on participant experiences. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on discussion, storytelling and collaboration.
Officiating people with a disability – Tennis Australia – 12.20-1pm
Tennis Australia will facilitate an interactive workshop for attendees to consider support requirements for officials working with people with a disability. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on storytelling and collaboration.
Building mentoring capability – ASC Coaching and Officiating, Australian Athletics– 12.20-1.40pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team and Australian Athletics will explore the impact of effective mentoring capability within the workforce, exploring the function of mentoring and support required. This session will include both presentation and workshop elements, with an emphasis on building understanding, reinforcing learning and collaboration.
We welcome our sponsor, Coach Mate, who will deliver a short presentation during this session.
Who is leading? Clarifying roles and responsibilities in embedding the Modern Approach – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 12.40-1.40pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will lead a panel discussion with representatives from across sport to explore how connectivity and clarity across the sporting system support sports in embedding the Modern Approach. This session will be speaker led with an emphasis on exploring diverse perspectives and reflection.
We welcome our sponsor, etrainu, who will deliver a short presentation at the start of this session.
Influencing for impact – ASC Leadership and Professionalism – 12.40-1.40pm
The ASC Leadership and Professionalism team will facilitate an interactive workshop to explore and develop strategies to influence others in adopting change through developing a deep understanding of stakeholder needs and requirements. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on skill development and collaboration.
Creating a culture of safeguarding – Sport Integrity Australia – 1-1.40pm
Sport Integrity Australia will facilitate an interactive workshop to support attendees to consider and develop strategies to influence the workforce to embed safeguarding practices through intrinsic value. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on collaboration and problem-solving.
In-situ learning and mentoring in practice – Greg Hunt and Alex Lascu – 1-1.40pm
Greg Hunt, WA Cricket Project Officer and Alex Lascu, WA Cricket Learning and Capability specialist, will facilitate an interactive session to reflect on their experiences leading the implementation of in-situ mentoring for coaches and consider the key behaviours and traits needed for those mentoring others. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with a focus on collaboration, reflection and problem-solving.
Finding clues in constraints: Multicultural and migrant women in coaching – Stephen O’Grady – 1.20-2pm
Stephen O’Grady, Queensland Coordinator of Welcoming Clubs, will facilitate an interactive session to support attendees to consider and reflect on the experiences of multicultural and migrant women in coaching positions and the role inclusive development practices has in recruitment and retention. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with a focus on building understanding, reflection and collaboration.
Supporting the new coach and official – Dave Reynolds – 1.40-2.20pm
Dave Reynolds, State Coaching Manager at SANFL, will facilitate an interactive workshop to support attendees to consider the specific requirements needed for coaches and officials who are new to their role. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on collaboration and problem solving.
Round table conversations: Helping more people enjoy sport – Rikki Lindsay, Lauren Robinson and Tess Healy – 1.40-2.40pm
Researchers will explore current research and insights with an emphasis on enhancing experiences of people in sport. Topics for discussion include mental-health help seeking behaviours in Australian sports officials, understanding intrapersonal expertise in sport coaches and including autistic people in sport and physical activity. This session will be facilitator led with an emphasis on building understanding and group discussion.
Referee as game maker – Scott Russell – 1.40-2.20pm
Scott Russell, Adjunct Lecturer at QUT, will explore the role of officials as more than that of a rule enforcer. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for questions. This session will have an emphasis on broadening perspectives, challenging thinking and building understanding.
Round table conversations: Engaging learning for the workforce – Netball Australia, Gymnastics Australia, Swimming Australia – 2-3pm
Leaders will explore development and implementation of bespoke and tailored learning practices with an emphasis on engaging learning facilitation. Topics include developing purposeful online learning experiences, developing problem solving capacity in coaches and officials and operationalising engaging blended learning. This session will be facilitator led with an emphasis on building understanding and group discussion.
Modern Approach to assessment practices – ASC Coaching and Officiating, Squash Australia, Pony Club Australia and Gene Schembri – 2-3pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team, Squash Australia, Pony Club Australia and Gene Schembri, learning consultant, will explore the role of assessment, considering the role of both assessment of learning and assessment for learning. This session will include both presentation and workshop elements, with an emphasis on building understanding, reinforcing learning and collaboration.
Fail fast, learn faster: Lessons and opportunities in adoption of the Modern Approach – ASC Coaching and Officiating team – 2.20-3pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will a workshop to explore challenges faced, road-blocks overcome and opportunities seized in adopting the Modern Approach to Coaching and Officiating. This session will be participant led and facilitator guided with an emphasis on collaboration, connection and problem solving.
Understanding disconnection: Barriers to working collaboratively – Richard McInnes – 2.20-3.20pm
Richard McInnes, ASC Executive General Manager of Sport and Community Capability, will facilitate an interactive workshop to explore and develop strategies for collaborative ways of working, particularly within and between organisations. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on problem solving, skill development and collaboration.
Embedding reflection in practice – Volleyball Australia – 2.40-3.20pm
Volleyball Australia will facilitate an interactive workshop to consider how organisations can embed reflection in practice for coaches and officials. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with a focus on collaboration, storytelling and problem solving.
Yarning Circle: What is an engaging learning environment? – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 2.40-3.40pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will facilitate a yarning circle around the grounds of Kardinia Park, “Kardinia” is derived from a word in the local Wadawrrung language that means ‘morning’ or ‘new beginning’. This session will explore what makes an engaging learning environment. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on story telling and reflection.
Keynote: Embracing diversity – Danielle Laidley – 3.40-4.40pm
Danielle Laidley, a former AFL premiership player and senior coach, now advocates for transgender awareness and diversity. Her journey from AFL stardom to becoming a leading voice for inclusion is a powerful testament to resilience, authenticity and the importance of acceptance. Danielle will share her story and insights on fostering diverse and inclusive communities.
Spotlight session: Day 1 Summary – ASC Coaching and Officiating - 4.40-5pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team thank all attendees for their engagement and contributions on Day 1. We reflect on topics discussed and key learnings from todays conference program.
Spotlight session: Introduction and Welcome – Richard McInnes (Australian Sports Commission EGM – Sport and Community Capability) - 9-9.40am
The ASC welcomes all attendees to Day 2 of the 2025 Coaching and Officiating Conference. We look forward to learning with you today. We spend time this morning connecting with our fellow attendees through a guided connection activity.
Keynote: Values based leadership – Steve Hocking – 9.40-10.40am
Steve Hocking, CEO of the Geelong Cats, has spent decades shaping AFL and AFLW through his visionary leadership. A driving force behind some of Geelong’s greatest successes, including their 2022 Premiership, Steve will explore how guiding principles drives high performance and builds sustainable success in teams and organisations.
Self-directed activities – All day
On Day 2, we encourage attendees to participate in some of the self-directed facilities on offer. Topics range from operationalising mentoring in community sport to coaching and officiating neuro diverse participants. Space is available to collaborate, problem solve with others and share your reflections on topics of interest.
Human centred design in practice – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 11-12pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will facilitate an interactive session on human centered design and how it can be applied to development opportunities for coaches and officials. This session will include insights and learnings from the development and delivery of the Womens Mentor Program. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with a focus on reflection, collaboration and building understanding.
Walk and Talk: What's holding us back? – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 11-11.40am
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team and EGM of Sport and Community Capability, Richard McInnes will lead a guided light walk around the grounds GMHBA Stadium to consider and reflect on the topic of “What’s holding us back”. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on discussion and reflection.
Supporting coaches to play more games – Jack Rolfe – 11-12.20pm
Jack Rolfe, Coach consultant, will facilitate a physical workshop on the neighboring Kardinia Park netball courts to explore the role of games in coaching and how they can be used to positively impact participant experience. This session will be facilitator guided with an emphasis on practical application of theory.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through the booking portal, opens in a new tab. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
Fishbowl: Holistic Development – Anita Keelan – 11-11.20am
Anita Keelan, Head Coach of Pathways at Netball Australia, will share her insights into holistic development and the impact on athlete experience. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for audience members to participate in the conversation. This session will have an emphasis on discussion and storytelling.
Fishbowl: Coaching and officiating as a means of social connection – Swimming Australia – 11.20-11.40am
Swimming Australia will share their insights into how coaching and officiating can be used to support social connection. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for audience members to participate in the conversation. This session will have an emphasis on discussion and storytelling.
Inclusive and healing centred sport– Welcoming Clubs – 11:20-12pm
Welcoming Clubs Acting Manager Kate Thomas team will facilitate an interactive workshop for attendees to develop their understanding of the needs and requirements of diverse populations to engage in sport, specifically how coaching and officiating shapes experiences. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on storytelling, collaboration and building understanding.
Where do I start? Starting from Scratch – Diving Australia – 11.20-12pm
Diving Australia will explore their journey in beginning to adopt the Modern Approach to coaching and officiating. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group discussions and questions. This session will have an emphasis on reflection, building understanding and storytelling.
Leading organisational change – Surf Life Saving Australia – 11.20-12pm
Surf Life Saving Australia will explore how leaders can support and influence change within their organisations, specifically elevating the profile of coaching and officiating and building the case for change. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group discussions and questions. This session will have an emphasis on practical strategies, building understanding and process development.
Fishbowl: Coach and Official Relationships – Waterpolo Australia – 11.40-12pm
Waterpolo Australia will share their insights into how organisations and individuals can build positive and collaborative relationships between coaches and officials. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for audience members to participate in the conversation. This session will have an emphasis on discussion and storytelling.
Operationalising communities of practice – Paralympics Australia – 12-12.40pm
Paralympics Australia will facilitate an interactive workshop to explore how organisations can operationalise communities of practice and social learning in a meaningful way. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with a focus on problem solving and collaboration.
Capability frameworks for development of the workforce – ASC High-Performance Coaching – 12-12.40pm
The ASC High-Performance Coaching team will facilitate an interactive workshop to develop attendee understanding on the development and use of capability frameworks. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on problem solving, implementable strategies and collaboration.
Managing requirements of International Federations – American Football Australia – 12-12.40pm
American Football Australia will explore their journey in managing expectations and requirements of International Federations as they work to modernise their approach to coaching and officiating. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group discussions. This session will have an emphasis on practical strategies and storytelling.
Developing and implementing a new coaching framework – Basketball Australia – 12-1pm
Basketball Australia will share their insights in developing and implementing a new coaching framework. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group discussions. This session will have an emphasis on processes and reflection.
Fishbowl: Meaningful safeguarding development – Sport Integrity Australia – 12-12.20pm
Sport Integrity Australia will share their insights into how organisations can create meaningful safeguarding development pathways to keep people in sport safe. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for audience members to participate in the conversation. This session will have an emphasis on discussion and sharing insights.
Fishbowl: Bystander behaviour and supporting officials – Meredith McGill – 12.20-12.40pm
Meredith McGill, Community Manager of Spartans Basketball in Brisbane will share insights from her work in addressing bystander behaviour to improve experiences for officials. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for audience members to participate in the conversation. This session will have an emphasis on storytelling and insights.
Fishbowl: What does it mean to be an inclusive coach? – Disability Sports Australia – 12.40-1pm
Disability Sports Australia will explore inclusive practices in coaching to support more people to enjoy and find belonging in sport. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for audience members to participate in the conversation. This session will have an emphasis on discussion and insights.
Keynote: The impact of participant centred coaching – Leah Englund and Grace Gaby – 1.20-2.20pm
What keeps participants engaged in sport for over a decade? Great coaching. Leah Englund and Grace Gaby’s 14-year partnership is proof of how trust, connection and participant-centred coaching can keep people in the game. Leah’s coaching philosophy at Zodiacs Gymnastics Club has helped participants like Grace thrive—through injuries, life changes and competitive success. Their story highlights why participant-centred coaching is critical to retention, growth and lifelong participation in sport.
Yarning Circle: What is holistic coaching? – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 2.20-3.20pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will facilitate a yarning circle around the grounds of Kardinia Park, “Kardinia” is derived from a word in the local Wadawrrung language that means ‘morning’ or ‘new beginning’. This session will explore what makes an engaging learning environment. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on storytelling and reflection.
Adoption of the Modern Approach – AFL – 2.20-3pm
The AFL will share insights from their journey in the adoption of the Modern Approach, the motivation for change, challenges faced along the way and what this change means for the sport. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group discussion, this session will have an emphasis on sharing and reflecting insights.
Culture change and creating respectful environments – ASC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion – 2.20-3.20pm
The ASC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion team will explore insights and strategies to support coaches and officials in creating respectful environments in sport. This session will be speaker led with opportunities for group collaboration and discussion. This session will have an emphasis on sharing insights, building understanding and collaboration.
Facilitation in Practice – Swimming Australia, Bowls Australia, Sport NSW and ASC Coaching and Officiating – 2.20-3.20pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team, Swimming Australia, Bowls Australia and Sport NSW will explore the impact of effective facilitation, operational requirements and building capability. This session will include both panel and workshop elements, with an emphasis on building understanding, reinforcing learning and collaboration.
Supporting coaches to play more games – Jack Rolfe – 2.20-3.40pm
Jack Rolfe, Coach consultant, will facilitate a physical workshop on the neighbouring Kardinia Park netball courts on the role of games in coaching and how they can be used to positively impact participant experience. This session will be facilitator guided with an emphasis on practical application of theory.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through our booking portal, opens in a new tab secure a place. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
Keynote: Storytelling for Influence – Ann Oodong – 3.40-4.40pm
Ann Odong’s groundbreaking career as a media manager and advocate has redefined women’s football in Australia. From founding The Women’s Game to leading the Matildas’ media strategy, Ann’s influence has been profound. Her keynote will highlight the power of storytelling to elevate women’s sport, amplify underrepresented voices and create lasting change.
Spotlight session: Day 2 Summary – ASC Coaching and Officiating 4.40-5pm
The Coaching and Officiating team thank all attendees for their engagement and contributions on Day 2. We reflect on topics discussed and key learnings from todays conference program.
Spotlight session: Introduction and Welcome – ASC Coaching and Officiating - 9-9.40am
The ASC welcomes all attendees to Day 3 of the 2025 Coaching and Officiating Conference. We look forward to learning with you today. We spend time this morning connecting with our fellow attendees through a guided connection activity.
Keynote: Motivated to officiate and inspire – Delfina Shakespear – 9.40-10.40am
A high-performance Match Official in the A-League and ACT Australian of the Year - Local Hero Finalist, Delfina is a trailblazer in officiating and gender equity advocacy. She balances her career as a Program and Strategic Policy Manager in the APS with her leadership roles in sport, championing inclusivity and fair play for women and girls. We look forward to Delfina's insights on the topic of Motivated to officiate and inspire’.
Self-directed activities – All day
On Day 3, we encourage attendees to participate in some of the self-directed facilities on offer. Topics range from brainstorming workforce requirements to support innovation to the role of empathy in connection. Space is available to collaborate, problem solve with others and share your reflections on topics of interest.
Walk and Talk: Coaching and Officiating in 2035 – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 11-11.40am
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will lead a guided light walk around the grounds GMHBA Stadium to consider and reflect on the topic of “Coaching and Officiating in 2035”. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on discussion and reflection.
Redesigning sport experiences for women and girls – Football Australia, Our Watch and Katherine Owen – 11-12.20pm
Football Australia, Our Watch and Sydney University researcher Katherine Owen will explore ways in which the industry is currently supporting and could enhance support to foster positive experiences and equity for women and girls. This session will include both speaking and workshop elements, with an emphasis on building understanding, reinforcing learning and collaboration.
Officials as leaders of change: Safety and concussion management – AIS and Rugby Australia – 11-12pm
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Performance team and Rugby Australia will explore the critical role that officials play in enhancing participant experience. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for collaboration and questions. This session will have an emphasis on sharing insights, application and strategies for implementation.
Modern officiating in practice: Guiding Coaches and Officials for united success - Aden Kittel and Jacqui Jashari – 11-12pm
Aden Kittel, Deakin Lecturer and Jacqui Jashari, International and All Australian netball umpire will lead interactive activities focused on adaptability, participant-centred approaches and fostering positive sporting experiences, equipping them with tools to thrive in community sport. This session will be facilitator guided with an emphasis on practical application of theory.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through our booking portal, opens in a new tab to secure a place. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
Modern Coaching in Practice: Participant driven experiences – Will Vickery – 11-12.20pm
Will Vickery, ASC Senior Coaching Advisor, will lead an interactive and practical workshop which focuses on applying modern coaching principles in real-world settings, emphasising how coaches can put participants in the driving seat of their experiences in sport. This session will be facilitator guided with an emphasis on practical application of theory.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through our booking portal , opens in a new tabto secure a place. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
The power of purpose – ASC Leadership and Professionalism – 11.20-12.20pm
The ASC leadership and Professionalism team will facilitate an interactive session to consider the impact of autonomy in defining ones purpose as a coach or an official. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on developing practical tools, sharing insights and collaboration.
Transformational leadership: Empowering others as leaders of change – Bowls Australia – 11.20-12pm
Bowls Australia will explore how individuals and organisations can empower others to become leaders of change to drive lasting and whole of sport impact in embedding the Modern Approach. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group collaboration and questions. This session will have an emphasis on sharing insights, developing strategies and reinforcing learning.
Who really owns coaching and officiating? – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 11.20-12pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will facilitate a workshop to explore the impact and importance of ensuring coaches and officials have autonomy and input on their development. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for questions. This session will have an emphasis on sharing insights, challenging perceptions and storytelling.
Modern reward and recognition practices – Cricket Australia – 12-1pm
Cricket Australia will explore insights and the impact that reward and recognition practices which create both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation have on the experience and development of coaches and officials. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for group collaboration and questions. This session will have an emphasis on challenging mindsets and collaboration.
Aligning workforce development to trends in participation – PGA – 12-1pm
The Professional Golfers Associations (PGA) will facilitate an interactive session to support attendees to consider and apply trends in participation to development of the workforce. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on building understanding, implementable strategies and collaboration.
What’s your why? Embedding intrinsic motivation in recruitment and retention strategies – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 12-1pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating Team will facilitate an interactive session to support attendees to consider how intrinsic motivation to coach and officiate can support recruitment and retention strategies. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on challenging perspectives, collaboration and implementable strategies.
Coaching for Connection - Stacey Marinkovich - 12-1pm
Stacey Marinkovich, Head coach of the Australian Diamonds Netball team will facilitate a practical session for coaches to explore and consider how coaches can support and use connection as a means to improve outcomes for participants. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on practical application.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through our booking portal , opens in a new tabto secure a place. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
Officials: The missing link in performance environments – AIS Pathways Team – 12.20-1pm
The ASC Pathways Team will share insights on the impact officials have in enhancing athlete outcomes in performance environments. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for collaboration and questions. This session will have an emphasis on challenging mindsets, developing understanding and reinforcing learning.
Bringing research to life – Deakin University – 12.20-1pm
Major Partner, Deakin University, will explore with coaches from across sport how the system can collaborate to create fit for purpose research which is embedded in practice. This session will be speaker led with an opportunity for questions. This session will have an emphasis on sharing insights, challenging perceptions and discussion.
Modern Coaching in Practice: Participant driven experiences – Will Vickery – 12.40-2pm
Will Vickery, Senior Coaching Advisor, will lead an interactive and practical workshop which focuses on applying modern coaching principles in real-world settings, emphasising how coaches can put participants in the driving seat of their experiences in sport. This session will be facilitator guided with an emphasis on practical application of theory.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through our booking portal , opens in a new tabto secure a place. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
Yarning Circle: How do we actually work together? – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 1-2pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team will facilitate a yarning circle around the grounds of Kardinia Park, “Kardinia” is derived from a word in the local Wadawrrung language that means ‘morning’ or ‘new beginning’. This session will explore the question of “How do we actually work together”. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on storytelling and reflection.
Debate Club: Technology V Tradition and the future of technology in development – 1-2pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating Team will facilitate an interactive debate style workshop to support attendees to explore how technology can shape enhancement of development and support of the workforce. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on challenging perspectives, discussion and collaboration.
We welcome our sponsor, Play Book Coach who will deliver a short presentation at the start of this session.
Truth telling: My experience in Sport – ASC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion – 1-2pm
The ASC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team will facilitate a truth telling session with Kyle Van Der Kuyp on his experience in sport. This session will be speaker led with an emphasis on storytelling and reflection.
Lessons from outside the industry: Communication in high-pressure, high-reward environments: Trevor Matthews – 1-2pm
Trevor Matthews, Advanced care paramedic, will facilitate an interactive workshop for attendees to consider the role of communication and connection with others in high-pressure, high-reward environments. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on skill development, implementable strategies and storytelling.
Connection under pressure – Matt Cox and Claire Polosak – 1.20-2.20pm
Claire Polosak, High-performance Cricket official, and Matt Cox, ASC Governance and Risk Lead, will facilitate an interactive session to support attendees to consider the role that connection with others plays in the moments that matter. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on storytelling, reflection and collaboration.
Modern officiating in practice: Guiding Coaches and Officials for united success - Aden Kittel and Jacqui Jashari – 1.20-2.20pm
Aden Kittel, Deakin Lecturer and Jacqui Jashari, International and All Australian netball umpire will lead interactive activities focused on adaptability, participant-centred approaches and fostering positive sporting experiences, equipping them with tools to thrive in community sport. This session will be facilitator guided with an emphasis on practical application of theory.
Bookings are essential for this session. Please ensure you register through our booking portal, opens in a new tab to secure a place. Registered attendees will be notified when registrations are open for this session.
Planting the seed: go slow to go fast – Cricket Australia – 1.20-2.20pm
Cricket Australia will share their insights and facilitate an interactive workshop to support attendees to consider and develop community led stakeholder consultation and engagement to support implementation of the Modern Approach. This session will be facilitator guided and attendee led with an emphasis on problem solving and collaboration.
Keynote: Community, mentoring and long-term development – Richard Colman – 2.40-3.40pm
A Paralympic champion with medals across multiple Games, Richard Colman is more than an elite athlete—he’s a leader in mentoring, sport development, and inclusivity. From coaching in Victorian communities to making history as the first person in a wheelchair to umpire an AFL match, Richard has dedicated his career to ensuring sport is accessible, inclusive, and built for long-term participant success.
Spotlight session: The Modern Approach: Where to from here? – ASC Coaching and Officiating – 3.40-4pm
The ASC Coaching and Officiating team explore what’s next as the system connects with each other to embed the Modern Approach to Coaching and Officiating.
Spotlight session: Day 3 and Conference Summary – Richard McInnes (Australian Sports Commission EGM – Sport and Community Capability) - 4-4.20pm
On behalf of the Australian Sports Commission, Richard McInnes’ thanks all attendees for their engagement and contributions over the last three days. We reflect on topics discussed and key learnings from the event.
Key dates
- 3 December – Abstract submissions open
- 16 December – Early bird registrations open
- 2 January – Abstract submissions close
- 10 January – Abstract submissions notified of outcome
- 13 February – Early bird registrations close - EARLY BIRD REGISTRATIONS EXTENDED!
- 2 March - Registrations close
- 18 to 20 March – C&O2025
Additional information
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