What we focus on

Designed to develop players’ athletic ability and tactical aspects of the game, our curriculum works to improve performance and game intelligence in each of our players.

We work closely with each of the players to address their individual needs so that they are able to apply and hone in on their natural abilities whilst developing tactical thinking during competitive play.

history

Though we only launched in Australia back in 2019, we’re not exactly new either. The 12th Player was first established in 2014 and has quickly grown to develop sports programs in multiple countries across various disciplines.

The founder, Luis Miguel started it with a vision to provide age-appropriate sports and skills development programs for children and adults alike.  Having worked with Arsenal FC for over 20 years, Luis went on to develop soccer programs for schools and academies in Australia, Europe and the Middle East.  As a passionate advocate for providing learning opportunities to all, he's also been recognised for his programs for both children with learning challenges and at-risk youth.

Since being in Australia, Luis has worked with various clubs and recognised that there is a need in the Australian soccer industry to provide unique learning opportunities for young players that have a strong focus on developing game intelligence and technical ability.

meet the team

Our Coaches have experience working at some of Europe’s top academies including Arsenal, Sporting Club de Portugal, Ajax and Feyenoord, and will work closely with our players develop them in an environment that promotes fair play and getting the best out of their performance. 

Luis MIGUEL Gorgulho (coach migs)

Miguel is the Head Coach of The 12th Player Academy, bringing more than 30 years of football coaching experience across 14 countries and an impressive 18 years with Arsenal FC.

With a career shaped by international football environments, elite development programs and grassroots coaching, Miguel has dedicated his life to helping young players grow, not only as footballers, but as confident, resilient and intelligent people.

His coaching philosophy is built on a simple but powerful belief: great players are developed through confidence, creativity, discipline and a deep understanding of the game. For Miguel, junior football is not about rushing children into pressure or focusing only on winning. It is about creating the right environment for young players to learn, express themselves, make decisions, build technical skill and develop a genuine love for football.

At The 12th Player Academy, Miguel leads the development of players from the early foundation years through to more advanced junior pathways. His sessions are designed to be challenging, age-appropriate and engaging, with a strong focus on ball mastery, first touch, movement, decision-making, game awareness and confidence on and off the ball.

What makes Miguel’s approach unique is the depth of experience he brings to every session. Having worked across different football cultures, coaching systems and player development environments around the world, he understands that every child develops differently. Some players need technical refinement. Some need confidence. Some need discipline. Some need to be encouraged to trust themselves. Miguel’s strength lies in recognising what each young player needs and helping them take the next step in their development.

Parents often describe Miguel’s coaching style as calm, knowledgeable, passionate and deeply committed. He has a rare ability to bring structure and professionalism to training while still making football enjoyable for children. His sessions are built around high standards, but also patience, encouragement and care.

Miguel is especially passionate about the foundation years of football development. He believes that the way children are coached early on has a lasting impact on how they see themselves as players. When young footballers are supported properly, they develop more than technical ability. They build confidence, problem-solving skills, resilience, teamwork and a lifelong connection to the game.

As Head Coach of The 12th Player Academy, Miguel’s mission is to create a development environment where every player feels seen, challenged and supported. Whether a child is taking their first steps into football or showing signs of higher potential, Miguel’s goal is to help them become the best version of themselves.

Through The 12th Player Academy, Miguel is helping shape a new standard for junior football development, one that combines international coaching experience with a genuine understanding of children, families and the role sport can play in building confidence, character and community.

craig smart

Craig “Smarty” Smart is one of the coaches at The 12th Player Academy, bringing decades of football experience, a genuine love of the game and a calm, encouraging coaching style to every session.

Known by many as one of the true gentlemen of the game, Smarty has been involved in professional football since 1995. Originally from Scotland, he came through the youth ranks at Dunfermline Athletic before going on to play senior football with Livingston, where he was part of the squad that won the 1995–96 Scottish Third Division. He also played with Newry City, Brechin City and Hill of Beath Hawthorn.

After a long playing career, Smarty made the transition from player to coach in 2020 and has been excelling ever since, coaching both juniors and seniors within the A-League environment. He is also currently Assistant Coach for Oakleigh Cannons in Division 1 of the NPL, continuing to bring his experience and leadership into high-performance football environments.

At The 12th Player Academy, Smarty brings real playing experience, strong football knowledge and a supportive approach to player development. He understands what it takes to grow as a footballer, from building technical skill and confidence to developing discipline, resilience and game awareness.

We’re incredibly proud to have Smarty on board, helping our young players enjoy the game, believe in themselves and continue developing both on and off the pitch.