
Andre Bennett said it was a “no brainer” when deciding to join Moreton Bay United as the newest member of the club’s technical staff. He is our new Junior Development Lead and will work with the Under 9–13 age groups and closely alongside Head of Technical Development Mac Smith and Academy Director Matt Poole. Andre will also be one of the lead coaches in Jets’ new First Team Development Program, which will focus on preparing players aged 17-20 for first team football. The 29-year-old joins us after coaching Brisbane Roar’s Under 16s last season. He has an FFA/AFC B Licence is currently completing his coaching A-Licence. “Andre is a key appointment for us in the junior development phase,” Mac Smith said. “His philosophy aligns with the club’s youth development plan. He will be a great addition to the program.” Andre said he was “pretty keen to get on board”, when approached.
“I’ve watched (Jets’) junior games and always liked the way they play, always liked the philosophy the club tries to teach,” he said.
“I know a number of players here through private training sessions I’ve run and from other clubs. It was a no brainer to accept the offer.
“One of the club’s main objectives is to produce players that go on to play at a professional level and represent their country.
“That’s my ambition too. Something I’m really passionate about.
“I’ve already worked with the Under 13s and it is a brilliant group. We had a meeting with the Under 18-23s and they are all keen. I can’t wait to get started.”
Andre will work more with Moreton Bay United’s Under 18s and Sam Dickinson with the club's Under 23s.
“Basically it’s one group,” he said. “It’s a first-team development program helping them focus on behaviours, attitudes, technique, individual development plan and how we can get them there.
“From my experience, with those who go on to play professionally, a common denominator is they always played with older age players. It helps you mature quicker, become smarter, and it accelerates learning.”
Andre has also coached Under 18s at Capalaba and The Gap; Reserves, Under 11 and Under 8s at Virginia; was a strength and conditioning coach at Kelvin Grove College Football Excellence Program and Head Coach, First Grade at London Metropolitan University for two years.
He is no stranger to Brendale and Wolter Park having joined ACE in 2018, only to tear an ACL in his first game and spend a year recovering.
During that time he decided to focus on coaching. “I want it to be my main career,” he said.