The West Coast Eagles and the West Australian Football Commission (WAFC) held a professional development session at the club on Tuesday night as a part of the AFL Schools Ambassador program.

The program, which aims to resource, recognise, motivate and reward teachers who strongly promote the game of Australian football in their school and their community, establishes  an alliance between schools and state football bodies to develop and promote Australian Football in the classroom and on the sporting field.

At the end of the year, all ambassadors have the opportunity to be nominated as their state or territory’s AFL Schools Ambassador of the Year, with the state winners and their partner/guest attend the AFL Grand Final and the West Coast Eagles Grand Final Eve Dinner in Melbourne, which is all thanks to the generous support of the West Coast Eagles' Principal Community Partner BHP Billiton.

Held on Domain Stadium and within the West Coast Eagles training facilities, the session was a chance for the teachers to pick the brains of the Eagles players, exchange ideas about the AFL Schools Ambassador and Eagles in the Community Programs, as well as discuss some practical training methods and also get a guided tour of the Eagles facilities.

WAFC Schools Development Manager Sharon Wilson, says the program is hugely successful across WA.

“It helps reward teachers and support teachers in the way they deliver football in schools,” she said.

“Having an opportunity like tonight where the teachers get the chance to mix and mingle with the players, almost in a one-on-one situation is a wonderful incentive to get involved.

"A lot of thanks has to go to BHP Billiton fot their sponsorship and support of the Ambassador of the Year competition in providing the major prize.

"What more could an ambassador want than a trip for two to the AFL Grand Final."

Eagles’ midfielder Mark Hutchings, who is part of the Eagles Rock My School Program, says the night was a great success and a great chance to discuss and develop the quality community programs being delivered.

“It’s a great chance to get together, when you put your heads together some great ideas always come out,” he said.

 “The AFL Schools Ambassador program is a great way to develop football and children in schools as well, so to get together and discuss them while also having a bit of fun is great.

“It was great to have the ambassadors in the club, it was a great night and we look forward to another strong year in the community.”