Walsh and Shipard land FFA gigs

Sarah and Sally are two of Australia’s most experienced players and current stars with the Matildas. They will now combine their football careers with these newly-created part-time roles.

The pair will play a lead role in the coordination and delivery of the Alcohol & Illicit Drug Education Program, which involves working closely with the FFA Speakers Bureau - a large group of high profile players and ex-players presenting to various parts of the football community.

They will also join the broader Game Development team and add value to FFA’s other existing programs through their profiles, skills and experience.

Both are undertaking tertiary study with Sarah completing a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) and Sally a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Media). They have also received training during several My Football Career courses.

Having both represented Australia for the past eight years, they are excited about their new roles.

“Sarah and I are really looking forward to delivering the program and working closely with the FFA team," Shipard said. "It is a great opportunity for us to give back to the game and really grow as individuals.”

“It is all so fresh at the moment and we have been taking a great deal in. I think it will be an interesting experience in terms of being on the other side of the organisation.”

Walsh expressed excitement at the chance to advance her career.

“Sally and I will compliment each other in terms of what we do with the program and balance the coordinating position,” she said.

“We have been given quite a bit of freedom to explore and deliver the program in a creative, fresh way.

"I will now apply the knowledge I have acquired through my university studies to the real world.”

The positions officially commenced last week although Shipard is away with the Young Matildas in Vietnam in her role as Media Officer. She will return to the office next week.