aussie rules

Nominations for the 2026/27 program are now open!

Apply here

The NCAS Aussie Rules program is delivered in partnership with the Regional Academies of Sport (RAS) network.

This program provides a high‑performance development pathway for talented young Aussie Rules footballers, focusing on technical skills, strength and conditioning, athlete education, and personal growth. 

Athletes receive targeted skill development, seasonal training support, and preparation for high‑performance tournaments. 

The program includes practical education in areas such as S&C, nutrition, sports psychology and injury management.

Program Partners

AFL NSW ACT

Selected athletes receive:

  • High‑quality coaching in a squad environment
  • Access to quality training facilities
  • Strength & Conditioning assessment and programming
  • Sports science testing and high‑performance training support
  • Opportunities to represent NCAS at events
  • Education in technical, tactical, and personal development
  • Academy uniform kit (additional cost)

Additional NCAS benefits:

  • Access to Lumin (Academy athlete performance and management platform)
  • Support for award and scholarship nominations
  • Community engagement and corporate partner exposure
  • Promotion through NCAS media channels

Program Eligibility Criteria

Athletes must be:

    • Male and Female

      • Under 13’s (2013, 2014)
      • Under 15s (20011, 2012)
  • Be committed to progressing to higher representation within Aussie Rules Football
  • Be a registered member of a AFL NSW affiliated club within the NCAS catchment region.
  • Reside in one of the following LGAs: Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Nambucca, Kempsey and Port Macquarie-Hastings.
Please note, this program is not open to athletes from the Far North Coast region as these clubs sit under QAFL
The athlete levy contributes towards the overall cost of delivering the Academy programs. Within our high performance programs are items including: 
 
  • Coaching*
  • Access to training facilities*
  • Strength & Conditioning assessments and programming*
  • Sports science testing*
  • Access to Academy Games* (relevant sports/age groups only)
  • Insurance
* Please note, Items marked with an Asterix are components supported through NSW Government grant funding. The grant contribution from the NSW government is limited to costs and activities identified in the approved Project Plan. The remaining portion of the athlete levy contributes towards costs associated with delivering and administering the Academy that are not covered by the NSW Government grant funding.

Program Delivery Period

November 2026 – March 2027

Dates TBC

Athletes

TBC

Head Coach

TBC