SportsKey session in Geraldton tests regional athletic talent in new and groundbreaking ways

Geraldton’s sporting future was front and centre last week in a groundbreaking event at Activewest Stadium, aiming to redefine how talent is recognised and developed — especially in regional communities.

The athlete assessment session on Thursday, July 17 was conducted by SportsKey on behalf of WA Football.

SportsKey, led by former Sydney Swans Academy head Chris Smith, is a data-driven organisation changing the game when it comes to identifying athletic potential.

Instead of relying solely on traditional fitness tests, the focus shifts to assessing growth, skill, co-ordination and cognitive ability —qualities that better reflect long-term potential.

“Too often, testing advantages kids who are simply older or have access to elite-level coaching,” Smith said.

“Our model identifies the raw traits that can be developed over time and gives every athlete a fair go.”

Supported by AFL great Peter Bell and the WA Football talent team, the Geraldton event was a clear sign that regional athletes were being given access to the same elite development pathways as their metro counterparts.

Local players impressed with their energy, teamwork and raw ability, as data was collected to help map out individual growth trajectories.

The initiative also gave parents new insight into their child’s development.

Sarah, whose daughter took part in the session, said: “It’s not just about how fast they run or how high they jump. Seeing her decision-making and co-ordination measured made me realise there’s so much more to it.”

Dean, another parent, added: “We’ve done footy carnivals before, but nothing this comprehensive. We walked away with real information and a sense of where our son fits — and what’s next.”

East Fremantle Football Club, aligned with Geraldton’s regional talent, is also embracing this new approach. By using data to explain performance benchmarks, clubs can more clearly communicate expectations and opportunities to families.

SportsKey hopes to make the Geraldton assessment an annual fixture, opening doors for aspiring athletes across all sports — not just football — so they’re not just dreaming about a sporting career, but being shown how to get there.