PORT ADELAIDE is actively supporting women’s coaching month, with two senior club leaders set to feature in panel discussions throughout July.
AFLW head coach Lauren Arnell and general manager of football Chris Davies are both involved in the AFL-led initiative to celebrate and promote women in coaching, at national and state level.
In March, Arnell made history by becoming the first former female player to transition into a senior coaching position, while Davies has held an executive role with the club since 2014.
Three panel sessions will take place across the month, featuring current female coaches and male champions supporting women in football.
Female AFLW coaches Natalie Wood of Essendon and Emma Zielke of Brisbane will also take part, with Port Adelaide the only AFL club to lend the expertise of two key staff members.
Davies reiterated Port Adelaide’s commitment to celebrating the success of current female coaches and legitimising the coaching pathway for women and girls.
“It’s a priority for our club to support and encourage women to become involved in coaching at all levels of football.
“Not only do we have Lauren Arnell leading our AFLW team, we are also supporting Erin Phillips to take part in the AFL’s Women’s Coaching Acceleration Program, where she will be mentored by Ken Hinkley.
“We want to help break down existing barriers for women and girls who are interested in coaching and support our AFLW players to consider pursuing coaching as a future option, beyond their playing career.”
The AFL’s women’s coaching month webinars are free of charge and open to anyone with an interest in female coaching pathways. Click here to register your interest.
