Introduced by the AFL Australia wide, the State Academies have become an integral step in the talent pathway for young footballers.
With an aim to holistically nurture and develop the athlete’s talents and abilities, the academy members also act as ambassadors for the game.
Due to the higher football participation rates in Victoria, the Victorian Academy is divided into two, with a Metropolitan and Country State Academy operated by AFL Victoria.
The AFL Victoria Academy Programs have three elements:
1. Under 18 Academies
2. Futures Academies (U17)
3. Under 16 Academies
In any one year, over 220 Victoria players are exposed to Academy programs.
AFL Victoria has a yearlong commitment to the selected Academy athletes which is complemented by their regional TAC Cup clubs or Centres of Excellence.
Selection into the Academy programs includes close observation of players' performances, regional TAC Cup feedback and the potential of the athlete to develop into an elite player and ambassador for the game.
Under the direction of High Performance Managers - Brett Allison (Vic Metro) and Lee Fraser (Vic Country), the programs offer exposure to training and playing opportunities with and against the best players in their age group.
Academy members are also exposed to expert skills and fitness coaching, welfare support and generalist information and skills for life.