A handful of construction apprentices from the Perth Football League headed to Construction Training Fund (CTF) in Belmont recently to launch CTF's new sponsorship with the Colts competition for the 2023 season.
This alignment will allow CTF to connect to the PFL's 2,000+ Colts (17–20-year-old) players and help those considering or currently working in construction.
The colts got a chance to chat to CTF CEO Tiffany Allen, who was keen to hear about these young men's experiences in the construction industry.
There is currently a significant skills shortage within the WA construction industry, so the ability for CTF to speak to young men either considering or working in trade, through the Colts network, provides really valuable insights to CTF. Not only is the PFL Colts competition a key focus area for CTF to attract and engage new apprentices into the construction industry, their input and feedback will help inform the development of future CTF programs designed to support younger construction workers.
Tifany Allen, CEO, CTF
When asked the apprentice colts players were unanimous that learning useful skills with their hands and not sitting in an office was the way to go, and when mixed with the training, games, and social aspects of their football teams, gave them a great combination of work, physical exercise, and socialising.
Manning Rippers pair Sam Bateman and Callum Flynn played in a flag last year and thought the Colts competition was a great pathway for young guys leaving school and junior football to transition into a senior club.
"To be able to play with local guys around our age has been awesome" said 19-year-old Sam Bateman.
"When I started my apprentiship it took some adjusting but my club was really supportive of my work commitments which has made it easier to play" he said.
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