Pennant Hills Demons Club Football Program
The Pennant Hills Demons Football program supports players across the Club’s Men’s and Women’s teams, from those making the transition from Junior Football into our U19’s and U20’s pathway programs, to experienced senior players playing in Open-Age divisions and the Masters program. The focus is on developing skills, supporting physical and psychological health and recovery and enabling players to continue their football journey in a supportive Club environment.
The following information outlines the Pennant Hills Demons’ Club Football Operations and Football Program. Players should refer to their team’s information and coaching staff for specific training, selection and match-day information and arrangements.
If you have further questions, you can contact the Head of Football Operations directly via football@phafl.com.au or the Club directly here.
Vision
To be recognised by the broader football community as a benchmark player development Club across Men’s and Women’s football in the Sydney Football League and AFL Sydney competitions.
Mission
To provide a football program that caters for players of all experience levels, with coaching and support that helps every player improve.
Players, coaches, staff, volunteers and families contribute to the pursuit of excellence through their commitment to training, competition and Club life. The program combines individual development with a shared commitment to team and Club success.
Aims
Develop players for Open-Age Men’s and Women’s football, with clear pathways towards the Sydney Football League competition.
Strengthen relationships with Junior Clubs in Sydney’s North and North West, and support players transitioning into the Senior Club.
Maintain a safe and supportive physical and psychological environment for players and supporters.
Pursue on-field success, whilst continuing to develop players across all grades in the Sydney Football League and AFL Sydney competitions.
Club Physiotherapy
The Club’s physiotherapy and medical support is provided through Core Active Health. Players who sustain an injury at training or on match day must notify their team physiotherapist, or their coach when a physiotherapist is unavailable.
An injury clinic is available on Monday evenings from 6:30 pm for players with injuries affecting their ability to train or play. Players should contact Core Active Health directly to arrange attendance. Sports and remedial massage services are also available at discounted rates for Club players and members.
To contact Core Active Health:
- Call: 02 9873 277
- Email: info@carlingfordactivehealth.com.au
- Visit their website: https://coreactivehealth.com.au/
- Visit their clinic: 733 Pennant Hills Rd, Carlingford NSW 2118
Medical Insurance
Compulsory player insurance forms part of Club registration, through JLT. The Club also recommends that players consider their own private health insurance and ambulance cover.
Players should review the current policy information to understand the cover provided and contact the Club for information about insurance arrangements and the claims process.
Player Well-Being and Workload Management
Players are encouraged to discuss training commitments and individual circumstances with their coaches, including work, study and representative football obligations.
Gym programs are available to complement field training. Coaches can provide guidance on incorporating these into a player’s preparation.
Where available, match footage can be accessed through Athlete Tracker to support individual and team performance analysis. Access details and instructions are provided through the relevant coaching staff.
Team Selection Process
Selection considers a player’s readiness for the proposed level of competition, football ability, commitment to training and attitude towards improvement. Coaches also assess understanding of team structures, positional versatility, ability to follow the game plan and availability, including representative commitments.
Selections are generally announced following Thursday training. Players should follow their team’s communication channels for announcements and any changes.
Club Expectations of Players
Players are expected to represent themselves, their team and the Pennant Hills Demons with pride. This includes preparing responsibly for training and matches, supporting teammates and treating coaches, volunteers, opponents and umpires with respect. All participants are expected to follow the Club’s policies and codes of conduct.
Clear, respectful and timely communication is important throughout the season. Players must notify their coach directly as soon as they know they cannot attend training or a match, or when their availability changes, so arrangements can be adjusted.
Players and families are encouraged to be part of Club life, whether by attending functions and events, supporting teams on match day or volunteering where possible. Different commitments are understood, and any time or support offered is appreciated.
What To Expect From Coaches
Coaches provide advice, support and development throughout pre-season and the playing season. They work with players to identify strengths and areas for improvement, while taking a fair and balanced approach to selection and game time.
The coaching environment should be positive and respectful. Abuse, bullying and vilification are not tolerated, whether directed towards teammates, Club members, opponents or umpires.
Training
Pre-season commencement dates and training updates are communicated through the Club website, social media and Athlete Tracker. Coaches will advise players of alternative arrangements when grounds are closed.
Training schedules and attendance expectations should be confirmed with the relevant coach. Players with work, study, family or other commitments are encouraged to discuss their circumstances early. Masters football has different participation expectations, with training encouraged rather than compulsory.
Players should bring runners, boots, a mouthguard, a towel and a change of clothing. Runners must be worn when pre-season ground restrictions prohibit boots.
Pre-Season Games and Season Match Day Expectations
Pre-season trial matches provide preparation for the regular season. Dates, locations and arrangements are communicated to each squad.
Players are expected to wear Club apparel to matches and follow their coach’s arrival and preparation instructions, allowing sufficient time for physiotherapy, strapping and warm-up.
Sydney Football League and Sydney AFL Season Fixtures
Fixtures are accessible through the Club website and the relevant competition websites. The Club calendar is updated as fixtures become available. Players should check for changes to match times and venues throughout the season.
2027 Registration Fees
Registration information for Men’s, Women’s and Masters Football for the Sydney Football League and Sydney AFL Competitions is available on the Club’s Registration and Fees page here.
Returning players should use their existing PlayHQ details to access their player profile. Players transferring from another club, including a Junior Club, should follow the Club’s transfer instructions before completing registration.
Players needing assistance should contact the Club Registrar directly.
