The Elite Coach Development Program is a scholarship opportunity for younger coaches who aspire to coach at the elite level - whether for an Institute, Women's National League, Hyundai A-League or national team coach position.

FFA National Technical Director, Rob Baan, will lead the program with assistance from the National Coach Education Manager, Kelly Cross, and the FFA National Teams and Football Development Units. Each recipient will have a program customised for their level of existing expertise, skills, interests and aspirations.

Perth Glory Director of Football Alistair Edwards said he was delighted to be chosen as one of the four recipients of the scholarship.

“I am pleased to be provided with this opportunity to further my coaching education. I have enjoyed being involved in the national teams programs for the past five years and with this scholarship I will be able to gain further experience and knowledge of the game” he said.

“The scholarship will provide me the opportunity to learn from and work with the best coaches, clubs, academies and players in the world. I am looking to go to Spain and Holland and also spend time with the Qantas Socceroos in the lead up to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, as well as completing the FIFA Pro License” said Edwards.

Nicola Williams, coach of the Football West NTC Women’s program as well as the WA State under 17 girls side has also received an FFA scholarship, the only woman amongst the four candidates chosen.

“I am extremely proud to be given the opportunity and this shows how important women’s football is in Australia as it can sometimes go unnoticed. I have a huge passion for the sport and am very excited about the road ahead” said Williams.

“The scholarship will give me a chance in providing the best for our current NTC squad and future WAIS (Western Australian Institute of Sport) team.  With my teaching background, I can provide support for our specialist football schools as well as provide and strengthen links with national teams and international clubs.  In the future I hope to be able to be involved in the mentoring of other future female coaches within Australia and providing coach education to the women’s game.”