Accelerator · Football Management

Managing and Leading a Club Football Department

Practical insights and frameworks for leading high-performance football programs across AFL and AFLW environments, from a experienced General Manager of Football.
Dates
4th & 11th November 2026
Time
5pm to 8pm AEDT
Format
Live Online via Zoom
Positions
20
Investment
One-off or Monthly Payments

What this course covers

Managing and Leading a Club Football Department is presented by Brad Lloyd, experienced General Manager of Football, List Manager and Player Agent. This course provides practical insights and frameworks for managing high-performance football programs across AFL and AFLW environments.

You will gain a deep understanding of what it takes to lead a football department, manage staff and budgets, and build an aligned, high-performing football operation. The content comes from direct experience at the top level of the AFL industry.

Who is this for

Anyone aspiring to grow their career in Australian football
Existing professionals working within football clubs and leagues
Anyone interested in working in football clubs and wanting behind the curtain insights

Course content

Thirteen modules covering the critical aspects of managing and leading a football department.

01

Fundamentals of Football Management

02

High Performance and Medical Programs

03

Football Operations

04

Well-being Programs

05

AFLW Football Programs

06

Integrating Mens and Womens Programs

07

Integrity and Risk Management

08

Performance Indicators

09

Understanding and Managing the AFL Soft Cap

10

Managing a Football Budget

11

Working with the Media

12

Media Messaging

13

Career as a Football Manager

The best football departments are built on clarity, alignment and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. This course gives you the map.

What you will walk away with

The skills and knowledge to operate as a Club Football Manager
Industry insights direct from a experienced Club Football Manager
How to lead high-performance programs at AFL and AFLW level
Understanding of the differences between AFL and AFLW programs
How to manage budgets, soft cap and total player payments
Understanding of the key components of football operations
A stronger network in the AFL and sports industry
A clear pathway toward a career as a Football Manager

Your facilitator

Brad Lloyd
experienced GM of Football · Director, Apogee Sports

Brad Lloyd has established a strong career in AFL football operations and list management, most notably through his tenures at the Fremantle Dockers and Carlton Football Club, where he served as General Manager of Football. Brad began his journey as a player manager and has progressed into senior leadership roles, overseeing football strategy, list management, high performance and club operations. He now shares that experience to support those looking to build careers in football operations and club management.

This accelerator is included as part of the Masters of Australian Football program.

Secure your spot in November

Only 20 positions available per intake for the November 2026 cohort.