New general manager announced for Asia Pacific Football Institute

Southern Cross University has announced the appointment of Scott Collis as the new general manager of the Asia Pacific Football Institute (APFI) facility in East Lismore.

The first stage of the APFI incorporating a full size, fully equipped state of the art artificial field, change rooms and office facilities has been completed. Works on establishing complementary fields and services are progressing.

SCU chose to appoint Mr Collis following an expression of interest process. He has extensive experience in finance and management along with long-term involvement with local football as a player, coach and administrator.

The APFI brings to life a vision to which many people have contributed, including former Socceroo and current SBS Football commentator, Craig Foster, to establish a football institute in regional Australia that would assist in the development of young regional players.

“The Asia Pacific Football Institute represents a great vision for the development of football in our region and our region’s role in the game throughout Australia and beyond into Asia and Oceania,” SCU Executive Director of Information and Physical Resources Mr Allan Morris said.

“The recent formal opening of the state-of-the-art facility and now the appointment of Mr Collis represent the next steps in working towards achieving this vision.”

Scott Collis is a well-known football identity.

“I am excited about the opportunity to work on what I believe will be, in time, a wonderful asset for our city and our region,” Mr Collis said.

“We are looking at a mix of community activities, sports camps and attracting visiting elite teams.”

Football Far North Coast general manager Steve Mackney said the appointment was an important step to progress the APFI.

“The APFI is a facility that will provide opportunities for football that may otherwise be limited to metropolitan locations. Football Far North Coast is enthusiastic about being a key stakeholder and believes Scott has the necessary combination of business skills, experience and connection with local football to take the site forward,” Mr Mackney said.

While appreciating the challenge ahead Mr Collis was optimistic.

“Our goal now is to finish some essential works and have the facility operating, self sufficient and contributing to football in our region and the wider community,” he said.

Photo: Scott Collis.