Football
7 October, 2024
Farr receives prestigious award
Stuart Farr has been awarded the AFL Victoria Stan Alves Youth Coach of the Year for 2024. The award was presented at a gala dinner at Ikon Park on Friday night, attended by 200 AFL Victoria Community Club guests and dignitaries.
A multiple premiership coach and player, Stuart is the 2023 and 2024 Head Coach for the AFL Wimmera Mallee Youth Development Academy, where he leads 50 youth boys and girls from the WFNL and the HDFNL in their football development. In 2024, this program consisted of 11 Sunday training sessions and trial games at Ouyen, Ararat, and Ballarat.
Additionally, Stuart serves as the 2024 satellite coach for the Greater Western Rebels and a 2024 V Line Cup Assistant Coach, making him one of the most respected and credentialed coaches in the Wimmera.
His commitment to youth football is evident through his volunteer work and leadership of a team of coaching volunteers in the region. This program would not have been possible without the volunteers of great people like Stuart Farr and his team of willing workers. The program will continue in 2025 again under Stuart’s guidance as Head Coach.
Ange Ballinger, AFL Wimmera Mallee Region Manager: “This is well-deserved recognition of an AFL Wimmera Mallee football legend who continues to give back to this great game in our region. I offer my heartiest congratulations and thanks for all that Stuart has done for the youth of Wimmera Mallee and look forward to continuing working with him in 2025”.
Farr said it was surprising, and it's great that the academy has gotten exposure.
"You don't coach for awards, but someone from the bush in a small area getting the award was unexpected," Farr said.
"It's good to be noticed, but more so for the academy as it gives it great exposure.
"Giving back to the footballers and letting them be the best they can be on and off the field and creating an environment to excel is the main thing, and hopefully, the academy can continue to grow."