Suggestions
Will Northeast
Youth Programs Coordinator at Port Adelaide Football Club
Professional Background
Will Northeast has been an integral part of the Port Adelaide Football Club (PAFC) since 2013. His journey with the club began as a dedicated player in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL). As his passion for the game grew, he transitioned into various administrative roles within the organization. These roles include important positions in hospitality and membership services, where he honed his skills in community engagement and operations management. Currently, Will serves as the Youth Programs Coordinator at the Power Community Limited (PCL), a branch of PAFC that focuses on enhancing the social and economic fabric of the community through impactful initiatives and programs. Will’s extensive experience and commitment to the club and the community have made him a prominent figure in using sport as a powerful tool for transformation.
Education and Achievements
Will Northeast's educational journey began at Henley High School, where he laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in sports management and community engagement. His practical education truly developed while he worked closely with the Port Adelaide Football Club and its various community programs. Under his leadership, the Power Community Youth Program has flourished, impacting the lives of over 25,000 primary school students annually. The program journeys through more than 90 schools, covering vital topics such as healthy lifestyles, nutrition, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), and respect. Will’s dedication to youth education and empowerment perfectly embodies the club’s philosophy of leveraging elite sport to promote healthy lifestyles and lifelong learning.
Another significant highlight of Will's career is the initiation of the Port Adelaide Football Club ADF Veterans Program in 2021. This groundbreaking initiative was designed to support veterans transitioning back into civilian life by offering them opportunities to engage with Port Adelaide staff, players, and coaches. Over the course of six weeks, the program fosters connections and encourages healthy habits, especially focusing on physical and mental well-being. By coordinating such innovative programs, Will has undoubtedly contributed to building a bridge between the club and the broader community, highlighting the impact of sport beyond the field.
Achievements
Under Will's capable management, the Power Community Youth Program stands out as one of the club's flagship offerings. His exceptional ability to connect with youth has facilitated the engagement of thousands of students, guiding them through crucial aspects of healthy living. The program covers vital topics, such as the five food groups, sports science, hydration, sleep management, and the importance of exercise - lessons modeled after the club’s elite athletes. By visiting schools and covering extensive distances, Will ensures that these essential teachings reach every corner of the community.
The ADF Veterans Program is another milestone in Will's career, clearly demonstrating his commitment to community service and wellness. By creating a supportive environment for veterans, he not only honors their sacrifices but also encourages a vibrant, health-oriented lifestyle that integrates them back into the community seamlessly. Will's belief that “sport has the power to change the world”, exemplifies his vision of using athletic engagement to foster unity and inspire positive change.
In summary, Will Northeast exemplifies a dedication to leveraging the power of sport to inspire, educate, and enact positive change in the community. His work with the Port Adelaide Football Club through various impactful programs continues to resonate with youth and veterans alike, proving that through sport, significant strides can be made toward community well-being and personal development. Will's role at the PCL is not just a career choice; it embodies his passion for transforming lives through the power of football, underscoring a profound commitment to nurturing healthy, engaged future generations.