Over 30 AFL players have begun a training program with a difference – a series of Victorian Government workshops that teach the skill of kicking goals in business.

Small Business Minister, Joe Helper, said the Brumby Government had teamed with the AFL Players’ Association (AFLPA) to help players make better informed business decisions.

“The Victorian Government is happy to provide seven small business workshops to help AFL players build a prosperous career off the footy field,” Mr Helper said.

“Players will receive valuable and practical information on business topics covering going into business, buying a franchise, marketing and strategic business planning.

“I welcome this partnership with the AFL Players’ Association which has shown great foresight in helping to prepare its members for a life beyond football,” he said.

AFLPA Transition Services Manager, Mark Porter, said the program complemented the organisations aim of supporting off-field personal development during a player’s football career and in early retirement.

“The AFLPA believe the Victorian Government’s small business workshops will help players be better prepared for the business world after a life in football,” Mr Porter said.

“We chose this program as it provides information and advice from well-qualified presenters who draw on their own considerable small business experience and success,” he said.

North Melbourne footballer Drew Petrie, welcomed the opportunity to attend the small business workshops.

“Players today realise the need to plan for the future and often have business interests long before retiring, so it’s great to receive support in developing the skills that will make entering the business world easier,” Mr Petrie said.

Mr Helper invited Victorians considering a business career to attend a small business workshop.

“You don’t have to play football to benefit from our small business workshops, which helps business intenders, start-ups or people already operating their own venture,” Mr Helper said.

“As it enters its sixth year, this initiative continues to offer valuable information to Victorian businesses and individuals contemplating going into small business,” he said.

To find out more about the small business Workshops, contact the Victorian Business Line on 13 22 15 or visit business.vic.gov.au/workshops