Sykes joins VAFA Football Operations Department

The Victorian Amateur Football Association welcomes its most recent full-time employee, Mikala Sykes, to Elsternwick Park.

Joining the Association as Football Operations Assistant in January, Sykes says the transition in to the Football Operations Department has been as smooth as it has been exciting.

“My short time here has been great,” she says.

“I’ve learnt a number of different skills which has helped me with completing important tasks such as player registrations and transfers leading into the season.

“My manager, Sam Confait (Football Operations Manager), has been unbelievably supportive every step of the way.”

Prior to her employment at the VAFA, Sykes worked in administration at AFL Victoria and ran football clinics at primary schools as part of her role.

She has three years’ worth of coaching experience under her belt and is currently head coach of the U13’s Seaford Junior Football Club.

“Coaching has always been an area I’ve wanted to be involved in,” she says.

“I enjoy assisting kids develop their skills and if I can help them achieve something through coaching, I’m happy.”

Sykes graduated from SEDA AFL in 2015 with a Diploma of Sport and Outdoor Recreation and a Certificate IV in Community Development.