About Play Athlete
Play Athlete Football Academy aims to bridge the gap between foreign, further developed sporting environments and our local landscape, delivering high quality community programs to:
• Increase Youth Opportunities Locally and Abroad
• Empower the Capacity of Young People to Prioritize their Physical and Mental Health
• Connect Community with Knowledge through Informed Practice
Football Coaching Personnel
Matthew Licata
Founder and Football Director
Matthew has worked across our local Australian football landscape at Grassroots, National Premier League (NPL) and at Federated National Level.
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Matthew is currently employed on a Full-Time basis with Football Australia and has previously worked Full-Time at English Championship Club Millwall FC.
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Whilst in England, Matthew had the opportunity to engage with various English stakeholders, engaging in practical learning with the English FA and at professional Football clubs such as Millwall and West Ham.
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Locally, Matthew brings experience in NPL 1 and 2 environments, having worked as a Youth Technical Director, First Grade Coach and a Youth League Coach across multiple ages. Matthew also brings NPL2 First Grade playing experience, having progressed through NPL Youth League environments.
Matthew has completed an AFC C License and is in the process of completing his AFC B License. Matthew also holds a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) and a Master of Education (Sports Coaching) degree.
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Matthew brings a passion for holistic and player centered coaching to his practice, creating a safe and challenging environment for players wishing to develop.
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