Melbourne City is delighted to announce that Gleneagles Secondary College has joined City in the Community’s City Futures program.
Melbourne City coaches will be embedded into the school timetable as part of the City Futures program, delivering both football sessions and in class theory around leadership, respect and personal development.
Delivered to Year 7-9 students, schools who have been involved the program have seen improved student attendance, pro-social behaviour and engagement, and the development of new friendships amongst students.
City stars Patrick Beach, Laura Hughes and Emilia Murray joined Gleneagles Secondary College Principal, Chad Ambrose, to launch City Futures at the school.
As part of the program, students will visit the City Football Academy, Melbourne – ctrl:cyber Campus at Casey Fields, where they will have exclusive behind the scenes access to a professional football environment.
They will be given the opportunity to watch the Club’s A-League Men’s and Women’s teams at training and gain an understanding of how a professional sporting club operates.
Mr Ambrose said: “Programs like City Futures provide an incredible opportunity for our students to not only connect with each other, but to also form a relationship with one of Australia’s best football clubs. The chance to have hands on experience at the City Football Academy adds a unique and inspiring element that allows our students to view future opportunities and see the impact sport can have on the community.”
Melbourne City midfielder, Laura Hughes, shared her perspective on the value of City Futures.
“Working with our community team in schools recently, I’ve seen first-hand why City Futures is so important. Using football to inspire young boys and girls and the opportunity for students to visit the City Football Academy and witness what it takes to succeed at an elite level is an incredible way to encourage hard work, teamwork and self-belief in their own journeys.”
Head of Community, Sunil Menon, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative.
“City Futures is about more than football – it’s about equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed both in school and beyond. Not only do we help them build skills in leadership, respect and personal development, but by giving them behind the scenes opportunity at Melbourne City, we’re showcasing the pathways and possibilities available when you combine education, personal development and a strong connection to the community.”
