SMJFL NEW FOOTBALL OPERATIONS COORDINATOR & FOOTBALL OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

The South Metro Junior Football League (SMJFL) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nathan Whelan as the new Football Operations Coordinator, and Jordan Benitez as the new Football Operations Assistant.

Nathan Whelan

Nathan Whelan joined SMJFL in 2026 as Football Operations Coordinator, where he supports the delivery of the league’s competition operations and works closely with clubs, umpires and stakeholders throughout the season.

Nathan brings experience in sport administration, operational planning and policy development, having previously worked at Manningham Council where he contributed to strategic sport and recreation policies, planning and facility management. He has also held roles with the North Queensland Sports Foundation, coordinating community sport programs and events across regional communities.

Nathan shared ” I’m really excited to join the SMJFL and contribute to a competition that plays such an important role in community football. Through my experience in local government, particularly in sport and recreation planning and policy, along with my time working in community sport in North Queensland, I’ve developed a strong understanding of the role local leagues play in supporting clubs and participants. I’m looking forward to working closely with clubs to support their growth and help deliver a positive, well-run experience for everyone involved.”

Jordan Benitez

Having supported the SMJFL team in a casual role in 2025, both in the office and our football events, Jordan Benitez brings strong versatility to the SMJFL. Jordan has proven experience in football operations, logistics, and team management. He has a great work ethic and communication skills and thrives in hands on roles that require accuracy, collaboration, and operational reliability.

Jordan's ambition to give back to the community is driven by his time as an SMJFL player at Cheltenham Junior Football Club, stating I was able to experience the great work the SMJFL does as a junior, and I'm inspired to give back the memorable opportunities I was provided."

GM of Football Operations, Nathan Broadbent, said that “The SMJFL is extremely fortunate to have Nathan and Jordan join the Football Operations team. Their previous experiences in community sport will be of great value to the SMJFL as we look forward to another exciting year of junior football. Nathan’s experience in local government, state‑wide sport foundations and YMCA Victoria adds another dimension to the team, whilst Jordan’s previous involvement with the SMJFL at both club (as a player and volunteer) and league level gives him a unique perspective on all things football operations."