AFL shines spotlight on women in coaching

The AFL has announced the launch of the third annual ‘Women’s Coaching Month’, supported by BHP, which will take place throughout July. This initiative aims to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women and girls in coaching roles across the country, as well as promote programs and initiatives that encourage more women to pursue coaching from grassroots to elite levels.

Since the introduction of the AFLW competition in 2017, women and girls’ football has gained immense popularity, resulting in a significant increase in the number of women coaching the sport. In 2023, there are over 2,000 registered women and girls serving as community football coaches nationwide.

There is notable representation of women coaches in state league and talent pathway programs. A notable achievement is the rise of women coaches in the Coates Talent League, with the number increasing from zero in 2022 to nine this year, across both boys and girls programs. However, recruiting more women into coaching positions at all levels remains a priority for the AFL.

The partnership between BHP and the AFL focuses on developing opportunities for girls and women to participate in various roles within the sport, including playing, coaching, umpiring, and administration. It also emphasizes the importance of men and the broader community advocating for and supporting women in these areas. The partnership prioritizes leadership, inclusion, equality, and well-being, recognizing that the progress of women is beneficial for the entire community.

BHP’s involvement in coaching extends through the BHP Women’s Coaching Academy, which has graduated 28 coaches since 2018, and the current 2023 program includes eight participants. BHP is also a proud presenting partner of the National She Can Coach program, in addition to their support for Women’s Coaching Month.

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The Women’s Coach Acceleration Program, co-funded by the AFL and clubs, is another significant initiative to promote women’s coaching. This program provides nine full-time coaching positions within AFLW programs.

To acknowledge the exceptional contributions of community coaches in advancing women’s football and shaping their local communities, the BHP Community Coach of the Year Award is presented. Nominations can be submitted to recognize deserving coaches.

Nicole Livingstone, the AFL General Manager of Women’s Football, emphasized the importance of growing and supporting women in coaching for the continued success of women and girls’ football. She highlighted the progress made in recent years and the focus placed on attracting and retaining women coaches, not only for women and girls but also for coaching men and boys. The support from BHP has been instrumental in developing programs that assist women and girls in coaching, and the positive impact of initiatives such as the BHP Women’s Coaching Academy, Women’s Coach Acceleration Program, and National She Can Coach program is evident.

Throughout July, stories of women coaches from all levels of the game will be shared to shine a spotlight on their valuable contributions, raise awareness of coaching programs, and inspire more women to pursue coaching opportunities.

AFL shines spotlight on women in coaching

The AFL encourages individuals involved in the game to nominate exceptional female coaches for the BHP Community Coach of the Year Award and share stories of coaches who have made significant contributions. The nominations can be made through the AFLW social media channels and AFL State and Territory digital platforms.

As part of Women’s Coaching Month, a community webinar will be held on July 18, featuring insights from community and state league coaches about their coaching journeys. Registration for the webinar is open to those interested in participating.

Overall, Women’s Coaching Month serves as a platform to recognize and support the progress of women in coaching roles, fostering inclusivity and promoting leadership within Australian football.

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Mai Linh Pham

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