strong culture. strong community. strong futures.
join us in building pathways through culture & community.
Launched in 2022, the ARA First Nations Academy was established to increase participation and involvement for First Nations People across the game. Since its inception, First Nations representation in the Academy has grown from 7 to 90 participants, a powerful testament to its impact.
Through dedicated coaching, mentoring, and education, the Academies provides over 700 young athletes across New South Wales with access to professional-level training and development, ensuring the future success of the Sydney Swans and the growth of the game in NSW.
"together, we can create opportunity"
We need your help to create the strongest talent pathway in Australian football.
"By COMBINING ELITE SPORT WITH OUR FIRST NATIONS CULTURE, THE ARA FIRST NATIONS ACADEMY CONTINUES TO HAVE A PROFOUND IMPACT AND CREATE PATHWAYS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF FIRST NATIONS LEADERS."
Jarred Hodges
Manager - First Nations Strategy & Player Development
Every great club needs a strong foundation - and that starts with its youngest players.
Your support helps us build bridges, connecting kids from all backgrounds to the game and the club. It means more boots on the ground, more coaches in local areas, and more chances for young people to grow through sport.
Right now, in the QBE Sydney Swans Academy, the next red and white stars are chasing their dreams.
They have the talent. They have the drive.
The Academy is where their passion for football is nurtured, and athletes learn invaluable lessons in respect, resilience, discipline, and teamwork.
"it has never been about their future playing in the aflw, it's about the kids pushing themselves to be the best they can be"
"I would describe the Academy as a family, everyone is here with the common goal to enjoy footy.
The children are really lucky to be a part of the Academy, and anyone would be".
Carly Neyland
Mother to Alex, Macy & Quin Neyland - QBE Sydney Swans Academy athletes
help us build the future
"My focus has always been around the individuals and their families.”
"I see our coaching role as a mentoring role for a lot of these developing boys and girls".
Courtney Knight - Head Coach of the Hunter Academy.
“There's always someone there encouraging you, whether it be a coach or a teammate.”
"AFLW has been my dream for as long as I can remember. There are so many opportunities to go higher and further".
Emily Hollingsworth - QBE Sydney Swans Academy
YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS
other ways to get involved
bloodliners
Inner sanctum access to Sydney Swans AFL, AFLW and QBE Sydney Swans Academy coaches and executive team, including invitations to attend bespoke information sessions throughout the season.
afl locker naming rights
auditorium seats
The auditorium is the epicentre of Sydney Swans HQ, playing host to team meetings, match previews, corporate offsites and much more. Your name will be honoured through an engraving on an auditorium seat at Sydney Swans HQ.
one-off donations
The Foundation is funded entirely through the support of generous benefactors. These contributions allow the Foundation to honour the rich history of the club, enhance a pipeline of talent and help ensure success both on and off the field.
bequests
Make a tangible and lasting legacy supporting the ongoing strength and security of the Sydney Swans. In making provisions for the Sydney Swans Foundation in your Will you will be providing support for the long-term viability of the Swans.
