Tasmanian AFLW star Jess Wuetschner is set to return to the state as the new head coach of the Devils Girls team.
Wuetschner, who has played eight seasons, including a winning premiership in 2021 with the Brisbane Lions, says she is looking forward to coaching the under 18 girls.
“Being able to help teach the next generation of Tassie’s best footballers and hopefully help them grow on and off field is a key reason why I took this role,” she said.
“It means so much to me to return home. To be with family and friends again fills my heart. Tassie has always been a huge support for me in my career and I hope I can do us proud.”
The goal for Wuetschner is not only to win games but to help Tasmanian girls become better footballers and to increase their chances of getting drafted.
“The most important thing to me is that the experience of playing at the Devils is a positive and enjoyable one that the girls can look back on,” she said.
“I’ve watched the growth of women and girls’ football in Tasmania over the years and it’s been incredible to see. The pathways are obviously starting to pay off with three girls drafted last year.”
Wuetschner steps into the Devils Girls coaching role previously held by Jodie Clifford, who resigned earlier this year to pursue other career opportunities.
“Jess’s AFLW resume is unparalleled in our state. She is probably the greatest we have produced, and it is incredibly exciting to know she will be imparting her knowledge and experience onto the next generation of Tasmanian girls,” Head of AFL Tasmania Damian Gill said.
“She has paved the way as a player for girls and women to follow in her footsteps with an amazing AFLW career, and now as a coach she will lead our state and work with Tasmania’s best emerging talent.
