Throughout June the AFL has celebrated the fourth annual Women’s Coaching Month, supported by BHP, with many Queensland clubs leading the charge in encouraging, role modelling and promoting female coaching at all levels of our great game.
The AFL has a record high of five women holding NAB AFLW senior coaching roles and more than 2,200 women coaching local footy across community leagues – up 13 per cent this season.
Driving this growth is the Women and Girls Action Plan, with the goal of women accounting for 40 per cent of all accredited coaches by 2030.
Across the country, there has been a significant increase in the number of young women taking up coaching positions, with a 20 per cent jump nationally in the 18-24 age group this year and a rise of more than 100 per cent in the under 18 girls’ space.
AFL Queensland Coaching Development & Education Lead – South, Brad Moore, said there are many clubs across South East Queensland that have grown their female coaching representation.
“We’re proud of our clubs across Queensland their passion for nurturing female coaches,” Moore said.
“Clubs like Alexandra Hills, Morningside, Mt Gravatt, North Shore, Pine Rivers, Sandgate, Sherwood, Southport, Surfers Paradise, Tweed Coast, Yeronga South Brisbane and Zillmere are just some of the clubs leading the way in South East Queensland.
“While in regional Queensland, Across the Waves Bundaberg, Brothers Bulldogs and Thuringowa Bulldogs have five or more registered female coaches, actively coaching across their Junior, Youth and Senior spaces.”
Moore is proud of the way clubs are promoting women in coaching.
“By including female coaches across all levels, clubs are fostering environments where their skills, knowledge, and perspectives are respected and valued,” he said.
“This approach is crucial for creating a more diverse and inclusive football culture.
“Many of these clubs have also implemented mentorship programs, pairing experienced coaches with up-and-coming female coaches, fostering personal and professional development.”
Another key program to promote women’s coaching is the Coach Your Way Rookie Program.
The Coach Your Way Rookie Program has been developed to provide women and girls the opportunity to develop knowledge, learn tools and be supported to confidently step into coaching.
It’s all about coaching your way, and not about fitting into the mold of a ‘traditional coach’.
“Clubs have made huge progress in breaking down barriers, investing in development programs, offering mentorship opportunities, and celebrating the achievements of women in the Queensland AFL community,” Moore said.
“As more clubs welcome female coaches to the ranks, the sport will benefit from new talent, fresh perspectives, and a more inclusive environment for aspiring young girls.”
To find out more about the coaching opportunities and education available, visit play.afl/coach.
