Barrett’s return to the club is seen as a pivotal moment, indicative of our steadfast commitment to strengthening community connections and nurturing emerging talent.

The role of Pathways Manager is of vital importance to SUANFC as we aim to foster and sustain our relationships with pathway clubs, junior clubs, and schools within our catchment area. With plans to introduce an Under-20s women’s side next year, the responsibilities of this role are set to expand even further.

Barrett is no stranger to SUANFC or to Sydney football. He debuted for the club as a 17-year-old in 2011 during our NEAFL era and went on to claim the club’s Rising Star award in his first season. Following this impressive start, he won the club goal-scoring accolade in both 2012 and 2013 before injuries hampered his career. In the ensuing years, Barrett transitioned into coaching, initially under Tom Morrison in the NEAFL side, and more recently as a development coach for one of our pathway clubs, Glebe Greyhounds.

Club President Jim Beard spoke highly of Barrett’s appointment, saying, “It’s terrific to welcome Chapter back to the club. He is highly regarded for his contributions during the NEAFL years, and when we were considering candidates for the Pathways Manager role, his name was at the top of the list. This role is crucial for our club’s future and manifests our commitment not only to SUANFC but also to developing the game within the broader community. Given that Chapter has come through the pathways himself and has been working with Glebe Greyhounds, he is uniquely positioned to understand the needs of the area. We’re absolutely delighted to have someone of his character rejoin the club.”

In his capacity as Pathways Manager, Barrett will be responsible for nurturing relationships with pathway clubs while identifying and addressing their needs, thereby creating a more synergistic relationship between SUANFC and the broader community.

SUANFC is genuinely excited about the expertise, enthusiasm, and insights Chapter will bring to the club. We look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly have in his new role. Players interested in engaging with our pathway clubs through coaching are encouraged to register their interest via the SUANFC Coach Connect program.