St Patrick’s College introduced the Liam Duggan Football Academy to its highly regarded football program in 2024, offering students from Years 7 to 12 the opportunity to learn from some of the game’s best.
The Academy is led by Brendan McCartney, a distinguished and experienced AFL coach with over 25 years at the elite level. Brendan’s coaching career includes his tenure as Head Coach of the Western Bulldogs (2011–2015), and he currently serves as Head Coach of Port Melbourne in the VFL. His dual background as a qualified schoolteacher and accomplished football mentor has enabled him to establish a thriving junior development program for elite youth athletes in the Geelong region—expertise he brings to the Liam Duggan Academy.
Supporting Brendan are four external coaching professionals, including Old Collegian Brett Bewley (SPC 2008-13), a former Fremantle Dockers player, who has played a pivotal role in delivering the program to students.
This year, 220 students participated in the Academy during Terms 1 and 2. Student selection was merit-based, with criteria aligned to the College’s strategic objectives:
- Demonstrated academic excellence (with a preference for Chris Nolan award recipients)
- Consistent attendance (minimum 90 per cent)
- Adherence to agreed standards of conduct and behaviour
The Liam Duggan Football Academy plays a central role in strengthening the College’s football program and broader co-curricular offerings. It reflects St Patrick’s College’s commitment to holistic education—developing students intellectually, physically, and ethically.
While on-field success remains an aspiration, the Academy’s primary objective is to cultivate well-rounded student-athletes. As reflected in the College Prospectus:
“If the correct educational processes are followed, the scoreboard will look after itself.”
The College looks forward to the continued development of the Liam Duggan Football Academy in the years ahead, further strengthening our reputation for excellence in both education and sport.
Vision and Benefits:
- Reinforcing the College’s dedication to academic and athletic excellence
- Promoting the football program within the broader Ballarat community, thereby enhancing enrolment interest and media engagement
- Setting high expectations that encourage the development of other sports across the College
- Instilling core values such as leadership, discipline, teamwork, and resilience in line with the College’s mission
The Numbers:
- Junior School: 80 students (45 Year 8, 35 Year 7)
- Middle School: 70 students (35 Year 10, 35 Year 9)
- Senior School: 70 students (35 Year 11, 35 Year 12)
Student Reflections:
Below are reflections from several senior students who participated in the program during the final five weeks of Term 1, 2025:
“The Liam Duggan Academy has been a great opportunity to learn and thrive in a professional environment with former AFL coaches and current VFL players. I’ve learnt a lot and really enjoyed my time in the program. Whether it’s tactics, fitness, or footy skills, the Academy has provided each of us with a broad range of new tools to take into the upcoming season—both at club and school level.”
— Lincoln Koliba, Year 12
“The Liam Duggan Academy has been a fantastic experience for all involved. The quality of coaching is second to none, and I’ve gained insights that will stay with me throughout my football journey. From new techniques to tactical understanding, the program has been thoroughly enjoyable thanks to engaging coaches and motivated peers.”
— Max Bunworth, Year 12
“This program focuses deeply on the craft of the game, enhancing both football skills and leadership qualities. The diversity of coaching perspectives offers a more comprehensive understanding of the game, contributing greatly to my overall development as a player.”
— Hamish McNamara, Year 12
“Participating in the Academy over the past two years has elevated my performance to a higher level. Brendan McCartney provides detailed, constructive feedback, and we’ve benefitted from sessions with top-tier players like Brett Bewley. Beyond improving as footballers, this program has helped shape us into better people. I’m grateful to St Pat’s for the opportunity.”
— Ned Charleson, Year 11
“The Academy offers an outstanding environment to maximise development, supported by knowledgeable and high-calibre coaches. Despite being a short five-week program, we all gained so much—both in skill and in building a strong, connected team culture.”
— Archie Elliott, Year 11
