23 May 2025
Growing up on a mango farm on NSW’s far north coast, Army Reserve Officer Cadet Christian Layland discovered the values of resilience and teamwork early in life.
Now, those same values motivate Officer Cadet Layland as he completes part-time officer training at 8th Brigade's Sydney University Regiment (SUR), working towards his goal of becoming an Armoured Corps officer.
"I joined the Reserves because I thrive on challenges and new experiences," he said.
Swayed to join by a long-time friend serving in the Army Reserves, Officer Cadet Layland saw life in the green as a good opportunity to continue leading and performing in dynamic, team-based environments, where he had thrived formerly as a professional football coach.
“There’s a connection between the leadership of coaching and the leadership of an officer," he said.
"It was where I thought I could best contribute to the Army.”
Working in civilian life as a communications consultant for the International Federation of Association Football (better known as FIFA), Officer Cadet Layland said his skills gained during officer cadet training complemented this role, and vice versa.
“My work involves promoting FIFA’s development programs and strategic objectives,” he said.
“Communication is a key aspect of leadership, whether you’re writing speeches for FIFA or delivering a set of orders in the Army.”
'There’s a connection between the leadership of coaching and the leadership of an officer.'
Despite his high-tempo civilian employment, Officer Cadet Layland said balancing the two careers had been “very manageable”, thanks to the flexibility and support shown by his employer and the Army.
“FIFA has been incredibly supportive. They recognise that Army training develops skills that benefit everyone,” he said.
Officer Cadet Layland said his upbringing on the farm, and in a tight-knit regional community, shaped his approach to leadership.
“Farm work taught me discipline and resilience early on,” he said.
“Living through droughts and floods also taught me empathy and how to support the people around me.”
Still early in his Army Reserves journey, Officer Cadet Layland said his proudest moment so far was simply putting on the uniform for the first time.
“It’s a small act, but it brought feelings of pride and excitement that told me I had made the right decision,” he said.
Looking ahead, Officer Cadet Layland is excited to continue his training, contribute to Army sport, and prepare for a busy stretch of international FIFA tournaments in his civilian role.
“I’m proud to wear the uniform, and proud to represent where I come from,” he said.
