Touch Football Australia (TFA) is currently undertaking a comprehensive review of its operating model to ensure the organisation is best positioned to deliver on its long-term strategic priorities. This review has been focused on aligning our structure with the future needs of the sport, enhancing our capacity to deliver value to participants, partners, and the wider community.
The aim is to build a more agile, sustainable organisation that can drive participation growth, deepen community impact, and support the evolving landscape of Touch Football in Australia. This process has included reviewing systems, capabilities, and leadership roles to support a refreshed strategic direction.
As part of this ongoing work, TFA wishes to advise that the following team members have concluded their time with the organisation:
- Wayne Grant – General Manager, Participation
- Brian Carroll – Business Manager
- Brad Mitchell – General Manager, High Performance
We want to thank each of them for the important role they’ve played in shaping TFA over the years and for the lasting impact they’ve made on the sport and our community.
Wayne Grant, who has been part of TFA for over eighteen years, began his time at TFA as High Performance Manager before serving as the General Manager of Performance and Pathways for more than a decade, achieving exceptional success at an international level with the Athelite Australian Emus. In 2024, he transitioned into the General Manager of Participation role, bringing his leadership and deep knowledge of the game to the grassroots space. Wayne has been a steady and passionate presence in the sport and leaves a strong legacy across many areas of the organisation.
Brian Carroll, who has been with TFA for over sixteen years, has played a vital behind-the-scenes role as Business Manager. His dedication and comprehensive understanding of our systems and operations have helped keep things running smoothly year after year. Brian’s long-standing service and in-depth understanding of internal systems have made him a trusted team member and a key contributor to day-to-day business continuity.
Brad Mitchell has been a central part of TFA’s participation portfolio for more than seven years, holding roles such as Commercial Competitions Manager and National Participation Manager before becoming the General Manager of Participation. Brad supported the development of national programs and engagement initiatives, helping to drive growth and connection across the country. In late 2024, he moved into the role of General Manager of Performance where he led the Emus through two successful international campaigns. His broad knowledge of the game and long-standing involvement across key areas of the business have been valued by colleagues and stakeholders alike.
We are grateful to Wayne, Brian, and Brad for their contributions to TFA. We wish them all the best in their next chapters.
While change can be challenging, it also brings opportunity. TFA is entering a period of strategic transformation and remains focused on strengthening the sport and delivering great outcomes for our participants, partners, and the wider Touch Football community.
Now Hiring: Join the Next Phase of Touch Football Australia
TFA is one of Australia's largest participant sports and there are huge opportunities ahead for the organisation, including our Olympic ambition. TFA recognises the need to introduce new capabilities in anticipation of strategic investments in all Alliance states, focusing on participation growth.
TFA will be increasing resources at both the national and state levels over the next few months and we encourage you to keep an eye out for new job advertisements as they become available on our website. Our first wave of recruitment is for two critical roles – General Manager, Growth & Innovation and Senior Marketing Manager – that represent new capabilities specifically designed to address identified gaps.
TFA will soon begin recruitment for these positions and encourages members of our community to reach out if they – or someone they know – would be a great fit. Brief role summaries are included below. Links to the job advertisements and full position descriptions will be available here from next week: https://touchfootball.com.au/career-opportunities/
General Manager, Growth & Innovation
The General Manager, Growth & Innovation is responsible for leading the strategic development and delivery of participation across the full Touch Football lifecycle – from grassroots to elite. This role oversees the national participation framework, including state managers, participation programs, refereeing, coaching, and performance pathways. It plays a key leadership role in driving sustained growth, enhancing participant experiences, and ensuring the long-term success of the sport at all levels.
Senior Marketing Manager
The Senior Marketing Manager leads the development and execution of marketing strategies that build brand awareness, drive participation, and enhance stakeholder engagement. This role oversees digital campaigns, content creation, and promotional activities – ensuring consistent and effective communication across all channels. It plays a central role in shaping how TFA connects with its audiences nationally.
TFA would also like to remind the community that NSW Touch Association is currently recruiting for another exciting role that will contribute to shaping the future of Touch Football in Australia. Please click this link to the Chief Executive Officer job advertisement.
This evolution in our structure positions TFA to not only compete effectively in today's crowded sporting marketplace but also to lead in sports innovation and participant engagement. By introducing contemporary expertise alongside our established knowledge base, we are creating an organisation capable of delivering sustained participation growth while providing meaningful career pathways for talented individuals.
We want to take this opportunity to thank our community, partners, and stakeholders for their continued support and commitment to the game. It’s your passion for Touch Football – at every level – that makes this sport so special and drives everything we do. As we move forward, we will continue to keep you informed and engaged as part of our journey.
