Years 7–12 | Mixed Program | Partnership: AFL NSW/ACT
The Hills Sports High School AFL Program is delivered in partnership with AFL NSW/ACT and is designed to provide identified student-athletes with the opportunity to maximise their potential and develop the skills, game understanding, and athletic foundation required to progress through school, club and state pathway opportunities.
Our program supports students to grow as complete athletes, with an emphasis on technical skill, decision-making, fitness, teamwork, leadership and positive program culture, within a high-performance school environment.
About the Program
Supported by AFL NSW/ACT, the AFL Talented Sports Program focuses on developing athletes across key areas of performance:
- Skill development: kicking, marking, handball, groundball work, tackling technique and contest craft
- Game awareness: spacing, movement patterns, transition play, and reading the game
- Athletic development: speed, agility, endurance, strength and repeat-effort capacity
- Team culture: communication, accountability, respect and professionalism
What We Offer
TSP AFL student-athletes access a structured program that includes:
- High-quality coaching and session planning aligned to modern AFL development principles
- Sport-specific athletic development, integrated with our school Strength & Conditioning approach
- Performance habits education: preparation, recovery, nutrition and mindset
- Opportunities to represent the school in approved competitions and events
- Support to balance training demands with academic expectations and wellbeing
Pathways & Competitions
Student-athletes may have the opportunity to progress through recognised school and representative pathways, including:
- AFL NSW/ACT Schools pathway competitions (including Junior Schools Cup Years 7–9 and Senior Schools Cup Years 10–12)
- NSWCHSSA representative opportunities and school sport championships pathways
- Connections to club and community pathways supported through AFL NSW/ACT
Representation is based on selection criteria and is separate to TSP membership (as outlined in the TSP Contract/Selection Policy).
Coaching – Adrian Cordi (AFL Coach)
Our AFL Program is led by Adrian Cordi, who brings a strong mix of pathway experience, communication, and student-focused coaching.
- AFL Game Development Officer, delivering AFL programs across diverse age groups and abilities
- Assistant coaching experience at Sydney University AFL and former Head Coach at Brigidine College
- International teaching and coaching experience, including seven years in Japan supporting athletes and community programs
- Values-driven coach focused on confidence, connection, communication and personal growth through sport
Our Development Philosophy
At The Hills Sports High School, we develop student-athletes, students first, athletes second. AFL training at Hills reinforces:
- High standards of behaviour and respectful communication
- Consistent effort and positive application in every session
- Coachability and growth mindset
- Pride in representing our school and our program culture
Enrolment & Program Access
AFL in the Talented Sports Program is offered for identified student-athletes in Years 7–12. Entry is through the school’s TSP application and selection process.
For further information about the AFL Program, trials, or pathways, please contact the Talented Sports Program team.