Lachlan Simpkin is AWFA's first full-time administrator

Lachlan Simpkin is taking on the role which will involve liaising with state bodies, councils, Murray United and providing AWFA with a greater presence in schools and the community.

Having recently graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Sport Management, he's determined to help grow the game on the Border.

"I've been playing football since I was four years old so I'm incredibly passionate about the sport and I want to see everyone playing the sport and enjoying it as I have," Simpkin said.

"I've spent a bit of time in the last 24 months with both the AFL and Football Australia in development roles and I believe that gives me an insight into how to grow the sport in this area.

"I'm here to improve how the association is run and build a better rapport with our key stakeholders.

"I also bring an understanding of how it's been over the last four to five years from a player's perspective, especially in junior football.

"We want to increase participation and we want our families to see a greater benefit for their kids."

Simpkin's appointment will reduce the pressure on AWFA's executive committee, who are all volunteers.

"We know clubs struggle with volunteer help and Lachlan can bring support for those clubs," president Mark Leman said.

"He's already been communicating with clubs and it's an important role for the community.

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"It's important that Lachlan's out in the community, showing who he is, what he's got to offer and I think football, in the next couple of years, will certainly benefit.

"We're going to use Lachlan with Murray United as well.

"We think he can play a role there to help build the relationship and help develop these programs that Murray do so he can get that message out to our members.

"That way, there's a nice flow between the two groups.

"Lachlan's role will evolve over time.

"He's starting off in administration but will move into school development, school holiday programs and working with our rep teams."

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