Manchester United, Liverpool ... Dapto?
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A new development program has Dapto High School students kicking goals with the big leagues.
Sydney's Liverpool FC International Academy has partnered with the Australian College of Physical Education and Dapto High School to provide students with pathways toward a career in sport.
The club's first Sydney program was launched in April brings together the proven football methodology and philosophy of the Liverpool Football Club with the expertise and teaching resources of Australia's leading independent higher education provider for specialist degrees in Sport, Education, Health, Sport Business and Dance.
Dapto is one of the first schools to take part in the program, which is run in 30 different locations around the world.
Programs will commence with free, 3 hour taster clinics in Dapto on the 20th of December before a weekly training program commences in term 1 of 2022.
Scott Collis, general manager of the academy, said the program was underpinned by the idea that the lessons students learn in sport apply to all areas of their lives.
"Well-run extra-curricular activities can lead to better educational outcomes, and we think Dapto High School aligns with our values," he said.
"There's a lot of effort put into the top 20 per cent of players, especially the boys - this is different.
"It's an opportunity for players of all levels to come together and focus on getting better.
"Talent isn't fixed, whatever your starting point is in sport or education if you commit the time and energy you're going to improve and you're going to succeed in life.
"If we don't share some of those life lessons we're leaving the best aprt of what we do in the shed."
Michael McKnight, partnership manager for ACPE, said there were many different career pathways for students passionate about sport
"We support off-field development with educational resources in health science, sport business and sport coaching," he said.
"There are so many opportunities in sport at all levels from the community space to the professional space and education. We want to provide that clarity about where it's possible to go in sport."
PDHPE teacher at Dapto, Ryan Trevor, said he was hopeful the program would also unearth some hidden gems.
"I've coached down here for many years and there's untapped potential everywhere," he said.
"A highly professional, highly accredited coaching program like this could unearth a diamond in the rough."
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