PORT ADELAIDE will be coached by dual Dutschke Medallist Emma Sampson in the 2017 SA Womens’ Football League.

She will be assisted by Lisa Kennedy and Jane Kluzek as assistants.

The Port Adelaide Football Club is the major partner of the local women’s club, which was established in 2003.

After disbanding in 2014, the club was reformed in 2015, and had a difficult season in its first full season since resumption in 2016.

However with an experienced coaching panel and a full season behind it, Port Adelaide is confident of an improved showing next year.

Port Adelaide’s general manager of football Chris Davies says the appointment of Sampson – a former Australian cricketer – is a significant development for the team.

“Emma is one of the most experienced and decorated women’s footballers in the state so Port Adelaide is very fortunate to have her agree to coach the women’s team next season,” Davies said.

“We’re continuing to support the women’s team program with mentoring from our AFL coaching panel next year, and in-line with our female football development strategy are looking to increase the number of players in our teams to help boost participation at grassroots level.”

After acting as a caretaker for the team in 2016, Sampson is looking forward to the challenge of coaching the division one side throughout next season.

“Building on from last year when I took over as senior coach, we’re still looking for new players to come on board with us in 2017,” Sampson told portadelaidefc.com.au.

“Shaun Hart will be involved in a coaching and mentoring role, so that’s some high quality football experience that our players will have exposure to.

“Last year we had Power coaches come out to training sessions and the players definitely got some positive experience out of that.

“We’d like to play finals this year and will be working hard through summer to put things in place to help achieve that.”

Assistants Kennedy, a triple state team representative and underage team coach with Port and West Adelaide, and Kluzek, a former player with Port and Morphettville Park, will provide senior support to Sampson at training and on game day.

Port Adelaide’s women’s team commences pre-season training in November. If you are interested in join the club as player, coach or volunteer email female@pafc.com.au.