About Us

Established in 2026, Joga Juniors is a technical learning pathway for children looking to develop their football skills in Cairns. From helping beginners find their feet and love for play, to progressing the intellect and technical details of more advanced players, Joga Juniors offers a platform that encourages all kids to feel present, fearless and inspired.

The term, “Joga”, means simply “play” in the spiritual home of football, Brazil. The idea of Joga Juniors was born while playing and connecting with children in Rocinha, the largest favela in Rio de Janeiro. “Joga” goes beyond just playing with the ball – it is about the expression of beauty, the innocence of the unknown, spontaneous creativity and being authentic to self – all of which can only be conjured in a fun, loving, caring and liberating atmosphere. Hence, we teach football more as an art form than a sport, where a smile is a win, and being organic has a sense of freedom that alleviates any pressure to try or fail.

Founded by Atha, who carries a vast experience of coaching children of many diverse backgrounds, tailoring a vision to grow inclusiveness and oneness with and around the ball. After a decade of coaching football in the JNPL Victoria, Women’s State Leagues and for leading junior academies in Melbourne, Atha arrives in Cairns as a dedicated craftsman and teacher of the world game. He has developed many prospective talents scouted by A-league and NPL clubs throughout Melbourne, been a founding junior co-ordinator in the establishment of Villareal Melbourne as well as having an extensive playing career, which now continues with Edge Hill United in the FNQPL. Atha has acquired an FFA C License, with international exposure teaching football and engaging with children in Morocco, Japan, India and South America.