John Cropper to coach Thunderbirds in 2019

Thirroul JFC is pleased to announce the appointment of John Cropper as Thunderbirds Women’s Division 1 Coach for the 2019 season.

John has an extensive coaching background at all levels of the game, including stints in charge of Woonona and Wollongong Olympic First Grade Men’s teams.

He has also achieved success with Bulli Youth Grade, and most recently coached Thirroul Thunder Youth Grade team in 2016 and 2017.

John was also involved with the Thunderbirds Youth League team which made the final of the 2016 and 2017 FNSW W21s Champion of Champions tournaments.

He has coached players who have gone on to play for the Socceroos or at A-League level, as well as first grade for the Wolves and Stingrays.

With his background and experience, Thirroul JFC believes John is an ideal coach for the Thunderbirds Division 1 team next season.

John will continue in his role as Thirroul JFC Mentor: Coaching and Development.

Thirroul JFC wishes to thank Tina Siskoska for her efforts as coach of the Thunderbirds Division 1 team for the past two seasons.

The Thunderbirds had the youngest team in the 2018 FSC Women’s Division 1 competition and Tina oversaw the development of many players into the first grade squad, which will benefit the club next season and in the future. 

Tina advised Thirroul JFC at the end of the regular season that she would not be able to continue in the role next season and has endorsed the appointment of John as the new Thunderbirds Division 1 coach.

JOHN CROPPER
Background
High School Teacher: Physical Education (38 years).

Player
State League: South Coast United, Balgownie, Penrith.
Illawarra Premier League: Tarrawanna

Coaching
First Grade: Woonona; Wollongong Olympic (2015).
Youth Grade:  Wollongong Olympic; Bulli (2011-2014); Thirroul (2016-2017).
Juniors: Thirroul, Tarrawanna, Wollongong Wolves.
School: Keira High; South Coast Regional Schools.

Qualifications
Level C coaching Certificate/Advanced Pathways (Senior).