Leading From Within: How Local Coaches and Mentors Strengthen Kimberley Spirit
Community-led leadership at the core
At the heart of Kimberley Spirit are the people who show up week after week. Local coaches, mentors and community leaders guide young people both on and off the field, providing consistency, care and leadership grounded in community.
While major events and pathway opportunities are important, the strength of Kimberley Spirit lies in its community-led delivery model. Local coaches understand the rhythms of community life, the responsibilities young people carry, and the importance of culture, family and connection. That understanding builds trust, and trust is what keeps young people engaged.
Creating safe and consistent spaces
Across Broome, Kununurra and surrounding communities, Kimberley Spirit coaches create safe and consistent training environments. These sessions are about more than drills and fitness. They are spaces where young people learn accountability, teamwork and respect, led by people who know the players and their families.
East Kimberley Hub Coach Jarrod “Chippa” Chipperfield reflected on the importance of having a locally based program.
“It’s very important for the East Kimberley that Kimberley Spirit continues, so young athletes get opportunities usually only afforded to players in metro or larger country centres,” he said. “The program helps level that playing field.”
Growing confidence and leadership
Coaches play a critical role in identifying growth beyond football. Across the season, improvements were seen not only in skill development, but also in maturity, confidence and leadership. For some players, this meant finding their voice within the group. For others, it meant learning to be coachable, consistent and accountable.
These changes often happen quietly, over time, through strong relationships and clear expectations. They are the foundations that prepare young people for future opportunities, both within and beyond sport.
Trusted connections across the Kimberley
For Kimberley Spirit Program Coordinator Casey Hanlon, local leadership is what allows the program to reach as many young people as it does.
“Community partners and local coaches are our link and our extra set of eyes and ears,” she said. “They are trusted people with strong connections to players, families and communities. Without them, we simply couldn’t have the same impact.”
Local coaches and mentors help bridge the gap between program delivery and community life. They provide guidance, local knowledge and continuity, especially in regions where distance and access can be barriers.
Leadership that reflects community
Importantly, Kimberley Spirit invests in leadership that reflects the communities it serves. By valuing lived experience, cultural knowledge and strong relationships, the program ensures leadership is visible, relevant and grounded locally.
As Kimberley Spirit continues to grow, this focus on community-led leadership remains central. Strong pathways, wellbeing outcomes and opportunities all flow from one foundation. People who lead from within, backed by trust, consistency and care.