Football Queensland has confirmed the appointment of two new team members on the Whitsunday Coast in the latest boost for regional football in Queensland.

Darren Thomas will join the team in the role of Club Development Ambassador – Whitsunday Coast alongside new Manager – Whitsunday Coast Daniel Khoury, providing further support for clubs and participants in the Whitsunday Coast region.

General Manager – Northern Region Declan Carnes said the new appointments would further bolster local service delivery following the implementation of additional resources in the region over the last 12 months.

“On behalf of Football Queensland, I’m delighted to welcome Daniel and Darren to the team in what is a major boost for football throughout the Whitsunday Coast region,” Carnes said.

“Both Daniel and Darren bring valuable experience, passion and knowledge of the game and are excited to get started in the coming days as we work to deliver an increased level of support for participants and clubs on the Whitsunday Coast.

“Based in Mackay, their appointment will complement the work of the existing team members across the Northern regions, including Football Australia/AFC Pro Licence holder and coach educator Michael Edwards who joined Football Queensland in January of last year to strengthen player, coach and club development.”

A former Operations Manager at Brisbane City FC with extensive experience in operational logistics and customer service, Khoury will work closely with Whitsunday Coast clubs to support the growth and development of the game whilst overseeing the day-to-day football operations in the region in his role as Manager – Whitsunday Coast.

As the Club Development Manager for the Whitsunday Coast, Thomas will work with clubs to strengthen player and coach development. Currently completing his Masters Degree in Sports Coaching, he joins Football Queensland with more than 20 years of teaching experience and extensive football experience as a professional player in the UK and a leading youth coach at a number of NPL Queensland clubs and schools.

Both new team members will commence their roles with Football Queensland in the coming days.