Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) has confirmed this year’s recipients of its annual scholarships, rewarding members for outstanding professional and personal development.
The scholarships are named after previous Football Victoria president Kimon Taliadoros and former Socceroo Craig Foster, honouring players developing in areas such as education, business, media, advocacy and community impact.
Each recipient receives $2,500 towards their development.
The PFA Kimon Taliadoros Scholarships are awarded to two players each year who demonstrate excellence in education or business.
The scholarships celebrate the drive and dedication of players who are committed to their professional development.
Wellington Phoenix’s Annalie Longo received the award for pursuing her coaching credentials through the Oceania Football Confederation A Licence, while also diving into the football media scene as a commentator with Sky Sport.
The New Zealand international is also the creator of the Fantails junior programme in her home country.
This initiative aims to engage young girls in football as part of New Zealand Football’s legacy plan for hosting the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Western Sydney Wanderer’s defender Gabriel Cleur also received the PFA Kimon Taliadoros scholarship, for his personal development. He is studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science and has completed a Diploma of Counselling.
Cleur has also done work regarding mental health and well-being, serving as a well-being officer and mental coach at Blacktown Spartans, supporting the NPL2 boys team.
The PFA Craig Foster Scholarships acknowledges the important role footballers play in shaping their communities and society and is selected by the PFA Executive.
Adelaide United’s Chelsie Dawber is one of the recipients of the scholarship where she has made a significant impact in her community via the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and recently launched her own business to support underprivileged communities in South Australia.
Brisbane Roar’s Chelsea Blissett is the second recipient of the PFA Craig Foster scholarship through her work in spreading awareness regarding eating disorders.
The former Melbourne City player is currently studying a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics, aiming to raise awareness and provide education for community football clubs, furthering her impact on public health.
Rita Mankowska, the PFA’s Head of Player Development, congratulated the players and acknowledged their professional and personal development:
“Personal development is at the heart of what we do at the PFA, and these scholarships reflect our commitment to supporting players’ lives on and off the pitch,” she said in a media release.
“Each of the recipients this year are not only developing themselves but are ensuring their journey of self-development is also impacting others.
“Whether that is through initiatives in grassroots football or the broader community, these players demonstrate the importance of holistic career development.”
The PFA also released its annual Player Development Report highlighting record investments in mental health support and education funding for PFA members.
In the past 12 months, the organisation also facilitated coaching courses, health checks, and expanded support for past players.
The program continues to promote a player-centric approach within the professional football industry.
