The Tasmania Devils are launching a new program aimed at creating more pathways for women to move into football coaching roles across the state.
The Women’s Coach Accelerator Program will support current female Australian Rules coaches through mentoring, development plans, access to high-profile guest speakers and funding for formal coaching qualifications.
Backed by new club sponsor Solstice Energy, the program is designed for women already coaching at community or representative level who want to progress into high-performance environments.
It comes as football seeks to address the under-representation of women in coaching roles in Tasmania and across Australia, despite strong growth in women’s participation in the game.
Tasmania Devils General Manager of Strategy, People and Impact Lauren Jauncey said the program was part of the club’s broader commitment to creating opportunities in football.
“The Devils are excited to provide these opportunities to women and girls around the state as part of our club’s commitment to the value of Level the Playing Field,” she said.
Program lead facilitator Rob Mason said the increase in women playing football had not yet translated into a similar rise in coaching opportunities.
“The positive impact of seeing women in senior coaching positions on the next generation is immeasurable – you can’t be it if you can’t see it,” he said.
Solstice Energy CEO Phaedra Deckart said targeted support was needed to help create a stronger pipeline of women coaches.
“We know that deliberate action on developing women with skills, opportunities and relevant experience shifts the dial on building a pipeline of leadership talent ready for senior coaching roles in the AFL, as much as in corporate Australia and that’s why we’re supporting a development program like this that actually opens doors,” she said.
Expressions of interest are now open to registered Tasmanian football coaches, with an initial group of five participants to be selected in the coming weeks.
Coaches from all regions of the state are encouraged to apply here
