Building Great People & Great Athletes
Gold Coast’s Structured AFL Development Pathway for Ages 8–17
The True Performance AFL Academy is a structured athlete development pathway designed to complement elite academies and rep squads! We know first hand that the are always kids you miss out on the development they need to unlock their true potential. That can start with someone believing in them, giving them the confidence they need and systems to help achieve their desired results!
Development for athletes physically, mentally and emotionally
How It Works
A Structured, Term-Based Development Pathway
The True Performance AFL Academy operates as a structured term-based program aligned with school terms, beginning with our official Term 3 intake. Our high performance holiday clinics will take place instead over the school holiday period.
Athletes enrol into their age-specific Academy tier and follow a progressive weekly schedule based purely around their needs and goals:
- AFL Field-Based Skill Sessions
- Athletic Development Sessions at The Hub
Each age group follows a development model aligned with Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles to ensure athletes are training appropriately for their stage of growth.
Age-Specific Progression
Junior Academy (8–10)
Focus on movement literacy, coordination, running mechanics, and foundational AFL skills in a structured but enjoyable environment.
Development Academy (11–13)
Progression into advanced movement patterns, introductory strength training, speed exposure, and
High Performance Academy (14–17)
AFL-specific strength & conditioning, power development, sprint profiling, tactical sessions, and alignment with elite academy standards.
Testimonials
Built To Complement Club Football
The Academy is designed to run alongside club commitments, not replace them.
We support:
- Local club players
- Representative pathways
- Suns Academy athletes in off-season periods
- Athletes preparing for trials
This creates a second elite development environment on the Gold Coast, keeping athletes progressing year-round.
Long-Term Vision
The True Performance AFL Academy is not a short-term project.
Our long-term vision includes:
- Capped intake numbers to maintain quality
- Strong partnerships with local AFL clubs
- Ongoing holiday clinics integrated into the pathway
- Clear progression from Junior → Development → High Performance
- A recognised second pathway on the Gold Coast
This is about building a sustainable, high-standard development system for years to come.