Southport Sharks Academy

The Sharks Academy was first started in 2018 with a mixed group of boys & Girls under the guidance of AFL 251 gamer Mathew Lappin. The Academy has now grown to boys & girls (by age group) and continues to grow each year.

Sharks Academy Head Coach

Mathew Lappin - Level 3 AFL Accredited Coach

Boys & Girls programs

Skills based AFL training
From beginners to Elite players

Venues

Indoors, Oval, beach, and video analysis of all participants inc game sense

Game sense

Learn how to read the play, contact support, communication and game smarts

Welcome to Southport Sharks Academy

Matthew Lappin - Academy Head Coach

Assistant Coach Southport Sharks NEAFL 2018-19-20

Development Coach Gold Coast Suns 2015 – 2017

Assistant Coach at Collingwood 2011 – 2014

Assistant Coach at Carlton 2008 – 2010

Played 251 Games at St Kilda & Carlton 1994 – 2007

All Australian 2004

2001 Leading Goal Kicker at Carlton – 2001

AFL Mark of the Year 1999

“I’ve been involved at AFL level for 22 years, 15 as a player and 12 years as a Coach. I’ve played as a defender, midfielder, a forward and experienced all the game has to offer. I’ve got a head full of knowledge and a heart full of passion for the game and individual development that I would love to share with your son or daughter”

Academy Program

All Inclusive

Education

The Southport Sharks Academy use video analysis in teaching skill development and game sense. Each academy participant will learn the fundamentals of football in a learning environment that delivers across several mediums. From the classroom to the field, all players are subject to understanding their body, nutrition, pre-hab, and the effects sport has on the body. Guest speakers will also attend throughout each academy season

Elite Skills

While becoming an elite athlete is the norm today in talent academy's, the Sharks Academy supports the learning of the fundamental skills. Often overlooked due to the importance of fitness in todays game, our participants will gain structured emphasis on skill based training. The kick is by far the most important skill in football, however it rarely is given the time in training to concentrate on the ball drop, the grip and positioning of the ball. Each fundamental skill is broken down and re trained to those that require specific skill maintenance.

Game Sense

AFL clubs have the use of vision from all angles of a ground on game day. The Sharks use drones and cameras around the play witch is broken down during pre training education sessions for class viewing each week. Understanding the flow of play, positioning, contact support and the effective use of voice and body, are pivotal in gaining more touches in the game. Each player has strengths and weaknesses, the Academy will help all players understand how to work themselves into the best possible role in any contest.