Two former Socceroos were appointed coaches of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Program and the Qantas Joeys (Under 17 National Team) earlier this week.  

In addition to his current position as the Football Federation Australia (FFA) Assistant Technical Director, Alistair Edwards will take on the role of Qantas Joeys Head Coach for the 2012 AFC U-16 Asian Cup to be held in October, and for the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup a year later.  

Former Socceroo Tony Vidmar has been appointed by FFA and the AIS as the AIS Senior Coach and will assist Edwards at Qantas Joeys matches.  

“Alistair and Tony have shown themselves, both as players and more recently as coaches, to be of the highest calibre and to have the right attitude, experience and personalities to be in charge of these two vital development programs,” said National Technical Director Han Berger.

“Tony will work as Assistant Coach for the Qantas Joeys and accompany Alistair on the bench at their matches.”

Football Federation SA would like to congratulate Tony Vidmar on his appointment to the AIS Men’s Program and the Joeys team and express many thanks for his contribution to football in South Australia.

“Tony has been a great asset for football in this State,” said FFSA CEO Michael Carter.

“He has proven his ability as an outstanding coach and he has a great record on and off the field. We wish him the greatest success for the future in his new role.”

FFSA is pleased to announce Carl Veart will oversee the Boys National Training Centre program in the interim until a full time candidate is appointed.

Veart has been Assistant Coach of the Boys NTC Program for the last 12 months and will continue to work with Vidmar over the next month to ensure a smooth hand-over process.

Vidmar leaves the NTC Boys program after two-and-a-half years and enjoyed much success including two National Institute Challenge titles.