Starting school is a huge milestone – for little ones and for us parents. There’s all the excitement of shiny new shoes, oversized backpacks and the thrill of “big school”… but also the flutter of nerves: who will they sit with? will they know anyone?
That’s why we were so thrilled to discover Soccer Mates.
Soccer Mates is a brand-new concept, designed right here on the Central Coast, to help preschoolers (ages 4–6) form friendships with kids who will be at their school before their first day.
Over 10 fun-filled weeks, children are introduced to a variety of sports – soccer, basketball, football, and more – in playful sessions that focus on independence, teamwork, listening, and resilience. But here’s the real game-changer: Soccer Mates will group your child with other kids going to their same school. So while the classes will help them with developing confidence and important school-ready skills, they'll also be making friends with their future classmates. It means that when the first day of school arrives, they’ll have familiar faces all around them – turning those big-day nerves into excitement.
And for us parents, it’s just as comforting – you’ve already met other mums and dads, swapped numbers, and even arranged a play date or two.
Having those connections in place makes the leap to school feel less daunting and far more exciting – and that’s exactly what makes Soccer Mates so special.
Want to check out their website, click below. Otherwise scroll down for more details.
Soccer Mates classes are for children starting school the following year. Here are the key benefits
- Builds confidence and school readiness
- Creates friendships with classmates before school starts
- Helps parents meet other school parents (and make new friends) too.
- Develops teamwork, social and motor skills
- Fun, active, play-based learning
Soccer Mates is calling for expressions of interest right across the Coast!
Want them to create a class for kids starting at your school? Simply fill out the expressions of interest form and let them know. The number of families who put their hand up will determine where programs are run – so spread the word! Tell your daycare, share it with your mothers’ group, and sign up to show that you’d love this opportunity for your preschooler.
Program starts Term 4 – week of Monday 13th October.
Expressions of interest close mid-September so they have time to group children by school. Register your interest for 4-6 year olds who are starting school in 2026. Plus, you can also register your interest for 2026 classes for kids starting in kindergarten in 2027.
Schools they're already servicing for term 4 2025
There are a few schools that are already underway to commence classes in term 4, 2025. If you're child is going to one of these schools you're in massive luck, as classes for these will be going ahead.
- Bateau Bay Public
- The Entrance Public
- Brooke Avenue Public
- Berkeley Vale Public
- Killarney Vale Public
- Wamberal Public
- Our Lady of the Rosary, Shelly Beach
- St John Fisher, Tumbi Umbi
Be sure to register your interest here, so that you don't miss out!
Meet the Soccer Mates team
The team behind Soccer Mates bring together expertise in education, sports, and child development. Here's who you'll meet...
Claire O’Reilly – Coordinator & Head Coach
Claire combines a Bachelor of Sports Management with a Diploma in Children’s Services, bringing a unique blend of sporting know-how and early childhood expertise. A proud mum of two energetic boys, she has worked in childcare for over 20 years, developing a deep understanding of how children learn, grow, and connect through play. Her energy, care, and passion for helping kids shine are at the heart of the Soccer Mates program.
Hannah Crossley – Founder & Visionary
Hannah is the heart and driving force behind Soccer Mates. A teacher, mum of three, and award-winning early learning leader, she holds a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary Education) and brings decades of experience across both education and business. Hannah owns and operates three thriving early learning centres, and her values of creativity, play, and whole-child development underpin everything Soccer Mates delivers.
Rebecca Thompson – Head of Education
Rebecca brings a wealth of experience spanning Early Childhood Education, Primary Teaching, Early Intervention, and University Lecturing. With a Master of Inclusive Education, this mother of two has led numerous community projects focused on school transitions and inclusive practice. Known for her innovative approach to behaviour guidance and her passion for play-based, nature-driven learning, Rebecca ensures Soccer Mates delivers high-quality, engaging programs that support every child’s journey into school.
Soccer Mates, Central Coast
Location: Central Coast - tell them where you want them.
Ages: Register your interest for 4-6 year olds who are starting school in 2026.
Plus, you can also register your interest for 2026 classes for kids starting in kindergarten in 2027.
Cost: $220 for 10 weeks.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0480 588 097
Soccer Mates' Instagram page
Soccer Mates' Facebook page
Soccer Mates' website
Written By: KATIE STOKES
Founder & Editor
After working in print and online media for more than a decade, Katie launched Playing in Puddles in 2017. A mum of three young boys and local of the Central Coast, Katie loves discovering and sharing all that’s happening in our region.
