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The Drysdale Senior Women’s Football Team is proud to announce its groundbreaking approach to leadership, with an all-female coaching and support staff. This innovative decision not only exemplifies the club's commitment to gender diversity and inclusivity but also highlights the immense benefits of having female coaches in sports.

Co-Coaches Sarah Chapman and Prue Davies share an extensive playing and coaching history, and complement each other effortlessly with a wealth of knowledge, passion and commitment to the Drysdale Football Club.

Sarah Chapman commenced her playing career in 2008 at St Kilda Sharks, where she ascended to the role of vice-captain in 2010, subsequently assuming the captaincy from 2011 to 2016. Sarah transitioned to Williamstown Football Club in 2018, where she was honoured as the inaugural captain, accumulating nearly 150 games at an elite level.

A pause in 2019 allowed for a strategic focus for Sarah and her family as she embarked on relocation to the coastal landscape of the Bellarine Peninsula. Following her relocation, Sarah engaged with the Drysdale Football Club, albeit disrupted by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah has been eager to rekindle her involvement in the Drysdale club and community setting with the 2024 season ahead. Sarah states, “I look forward to co-coaching and contributing to the success of the Drysdale Football Club in this exciting new chapter.”

Prue Davies has been a pivotal figure in Women's football both on and off the field. She began her journey as a player, commencing with North Cairns Tigers, where her natural talent and fierce dedication quickly made her a standout on the field. Her passion for the game and her unwavering commitment to her team earned her a spot with Bermagui, where she continued to excel and coach the first ever Women's Bermagui Breakers Football Team. 

Throughout her playing career, Prue accumulated nearly 100 games, showcasing her exceptional skills and leadership abilities. Her ability to inspire and motivate her teammates made her a natural choice for coaching roles. Prue transitioned into coaching with the same determination and passion that characterised her playing career at the Drysdale Football Club, where she served as a coach for the junior girl’s teams for four years, leaving a lasting impact on the young players she mentored.

In 2020, Prue faced an unprecedented challenge as Covid-19 hit, disrupting sports and daily life worldwide. Despite the obstacles, Prue rose to the occasion, dedicating herself to guiding her team through the uncertainty and maintaining a sense of unity and purpose. Prue Captained the Drysdale Women’s football team for four years during 2018 – 2021.

As a player, coach, and role model, Prue has exemplified the values of teamwork, dedication, and resilience. Her contributions to Drysdale Football Club have been instrumental in shaping the club's identity and fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity.

As the team gears up for the upcoming season, they recognise the undeniable advantages of having female coaches who provide unique insights, perspectives, and mentorship. This diverse leadership fosters a more inclusive and supportive team environment for women and young people who have a love for football, ultimately leading to improved performance on and off the field.

2023 Team Captain for Drysdale Women's Football Team, Elie Montgomery shares her excitement about the season ahead, “Having an all-female coaching and support team including the women’s coordinator and trainers has been incredibly empowering for all of us. It's not just about the game; it's about role modelling and creating a safe and inclusive space where we can all thrive.”

Jessica Case is a celebrated figure within the Drysdale Football Club, renowned for her dedication and remarkable contributions across multiple roles within the club. Having been actively involved for eight years, Jessica has become an integral part of the club's fabric, leaving an indelible mark with her tireless efforts.

Jessica began her journey as a player for the club, showcasing her strength and talent as a player with untiring commitment for seven years. Even during times of injury, she continued to serve the club as a runner, symbolising her commitment to the team's success.

Jessica's contributions extend beyond the field. For the past five years, she has taken on the crucial role of Women's Coordinator and Social Coordinator, passionately advocating for women's participation and advancement within the sport and ensuring that the club's social events are engaging and memorable for all members.

In recognition of her leadership and dedication, Jessica was elected as the First Female Vice President of the Drysdale Football Club in 2024, after serving on the main committee for five years. In this capacity, she has overseen various initiatives and has played a key role in shaping the club's vision and direction.

Jessica Case's continuing commitment to Drysdale Football Club, combined with her exceptional leadership skills, has made her a beloved and respected figure within the community. Her contributions have helped foster a strong sense of camaraderie, inclusivity, and success within the club, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

Women's Football Coordinator at Drysdale Football Club, Rhyll Montgomery states “I am proud to lead an all-female team of coaches and trainers who collectively work tirelessly to ensure the strength and growth of women's football at our club.  Our all-female leadership team has been instrumental in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where our players can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Our coaches and trainers bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, guiding our players with care and dedication. Our Vice President, Jessica Case plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction of our women's football program, ensuring that it aligns with our club's values and goals.

As we continue to build on our successes, I am confident that our all-female leadership team will play a crucial role in driving further growth and success in women's football at Drysdale Football Club. Together, we are committed to creating a positive and empowering environment where our female athletes can flourish both on and off the field”.

The Drysdale Football Club Senior Women's team is setting a new standard for local community sports, and they invite other clubs to embrace this progressive approach to leadership. By supporting diversity and inclusivity, Drysdale is not only winning games but also embracing and celebrating Women’s grassroots football.

For all enquiries regarding the Drysdale Senior Women’s Football Team please see below link Senior Women's Football | Drysdale Football Club (drysdalefc.com.au).

AFL Barwon is excited to announce the fixtures for the 2025 Female Football Finals across the Epworth Cup and Kings Cup competitions. The finals series will feature the region’s most talented female footballers, with teams from Under 14 through to Senior level competing for premiership honours.

Matches will be played across multiple venues, commencing with Under 18 Friday night fixtures before a full day of finals action on Sunday.

Entry is free to all matches, providing an excellent opportunity for the community to support female football.

Senior Female Division 1 Epworth Cup

Sunday 17 August 2025

Geelong Ammos v Grovedale – Ray Menzies Oval, 1:30pm

St Mary’s v Thomson – Osborne Park, 1:30pm

Senior Female Division 2 Epworth Cup

Sunday 17 August 2025

Geelong West Giants v South Barwon – Hamlyn Park, 1:30pm

Drysdale Hawks v Newtown & Chilwell – Osborne Park, 11:30am

Under 18 Female Epworth Cup

Friday 15 August 2025

Torquay Scott v Ocean Grove King – Anthony Costa Oval, 5:30pm

St Joseph’s v Bell Park Giants – Anthony Costa Oval, 7:15pm

Under 16 Female Division 1 Epworth Cup

Sunday 17 August 2025

Geelong Ammos Williams v Ocean Grove Beaton – Ray Menzies Oval, 11:45am

Peninsula Sharks Whities v St Mary’s – Ray Menzies Oval, 8:30am

Under 16 Female Division 2 Kings Cup

Sunday 17 August 2025

St Joseph’s v Bell Park Dragons – Hamlyn Park, 10:00am

South Barwon Matthewson v Surf Coast Suns Zeally – Hamlyn Park, 11:45am

Under 14 Female Division 1 Epworth Cup

Sunday 17 August 2025

Torquay Bennett v St Mary’s Garing – Osborne Park, 10:00am

Peninsula Sharks Bulls v Ocean Grove Tisdale – Ray Menzies Oval, 10:15am

Under 14 Female Division 2 Kings Cup

Sunday 17 August 2025

Torquay Woodruff v Ammos Joeys Scoullar – Osborne Park, 8:30am

Bell Park v Surf Coast Suns Fishos – Hamlyn Park, 8:30am

AFL Barwon, in extensive consultation with the impacted member clubs and their key stakeholders, have made changes to the AFL Barwon Female Football Day of play for the 2024 season.

The Epworth Senior Female and Under 19’s Female Football Competition’s will be played primarily on Friday nights. The fixturing of Friday night matches will be only at venues that have lighting that meet the required safety standards to host matches. There are only 5 of the current 17 Senior Female & Under 19’s clubs do not have adequate lighting facilities which will see most matches played on Friday nights. For club’s with sufficient lights to play night home games, doubleheader fixturing will be made possible. For any clubs that do not have adequate lighting, they will still play home games on Sunday's, unless alternative fixtures have been agreed upon. Clubs have been encouraged to consult and collaborate with other clubs if games need to be moved from the Friday night or Sunday timeslots for any significant reasoning.

The basis of these changes has been formulated to ensure that female participation continues to trend positively across the Barwon Region. With the implementation of the Fair Access Policy in 2025, AFL Barwon believes this modelling is a critical element in preparing for these policy changes. Female participation in the Barwon Region in 2023 had a rise of 17% across all competitions.

Throughout the consultation process, a consistent theme emerged indicating a strong desire for increased club connection among female players and officials. There was a notable interest in providing them with the opportunity to participate in club social events. The changes should also help to strengthen the connection between the Under 19 and Senior sections of the Female Football Clubs.  

There are no changes to the scheduling or day of play for any other junior female competitions in 2024. 

All fixtures for Female Football competitions will be released in the lead up to the 2024 season.

Click here for the 2024 season dates for all Female Football competitions.

The Toyota Good For Footy Gear Grant program is back for the third-season running, with 100 female football teams around the country to benefit from funding to supply brand new, specially designed uniforms.

Applications are now open and will be closing in late January, so clubs are urged to get their applications in for the $1,600 grant by explaining ‘why their team is worthy of kit that fits’ at https://www.toyota.com.au/community/partnerships/afl-aflw/gear.

Women and girls football participation has exploded in the last five years since the inception of AFLW. In 2016, there were 983 community teams for women and girls playing Australian football. Today, there are more than 2500 community teams for women and girls.

The 2022 edition of the gear grants, which is part of Toyota’s continued support for the game through the Good for Footy program, will take the number of clubs to have benefited from the funding to 300. Clubs have shared in $320,000 of funding from Toyota over the past two years.

Toyota Good for Footy Round will be held again in both the NAB AFLW competition (Round Six) and the Toyota AFL Premiership seasons in 2022.

John Pappas, Chief Marketing Officer, Toyota Australia said: “Toyota Australia has been a long-time supporter of community football and for the third season running, the Good for Footy Gear Grants Program will help women and girls around Australia get the right gear to play the game they love.

“Every year female participation is becoming more popular at the community level, but it’s not always possible for female teams to play in their own kit. For clubs, having access to initiatives like Toyota’s Good for Footy Gear Grant program encourages teams to play at their best.

“We’re looking forward to seeing this season’s entries from community clubs across Australia, giving female teams a chance to qualify for a $1,600 gear grant and make footy better for all.”

In 2021, the following clubs from Victoria were recipients of the Toyota Good For Footy Gear Grant program:

• Barwon Heads Football and Netball Club
• Bayswater Junior Football Club
• Bentleigh Football Netball Club
• Clayton Football and Netball Club
• Coburg Districts Football Club
• Edithvale Aspendale Football Club
• Frankston Dolphins Football Netball Club
• Frankston Football Club
• Kerang Football and Netball Club
• Kilmore Junior Football Club
• Lancefield Junior Football Netball Club
• Lemnos Football and Netball Club
• Manor Lakes Football Club
• Mazenod Panthers Football Club
• Mitcham Football Club
• Moe Football and Netball Club
• Monash University Blues Football Club
• Mt Evelyn Football Netball Club.
• Newtown & Chilwell Football Club
• North Sunshine Football Club
• Northcote Junior Football Club
• Northern Saints Football Club
• Preston Bullants Amateur Football Club
• Sale Football Netball Club.
• South Croydon Football Club
• South Yarra Football Club.
• St Josephs Football Club Geelong
• St Mary’s Salesian Amateur Football Club
• Tatura Football Netball Club
• Taylors Lakes Sporting Club
• Tyabb Football Club
• Upwey Tecoma Football and Netball Club
• Whitehorse Colts
• Yarraville Seddon Eagles

This week we celebrate the Females in Sport across the Barwon region; this includes the Commissioners and Staff at AFL Barwon who play an integral role in facilitating Football and Netball competitions.

Females are stepping into roles traditionally dominated by men, transforming the landscape of sports administration and leadership. The stories of perseverance, empowerment, and passion are not only changing the game but also setting new standards for inclusivity and support in sports.

Michelle Gerdtz’s presidency at Bell Park FNC and her election of AFL Barwon Chair highlight the progress women have made in sports leadership. "What's taken so long!" she wondered upon learning she was the first female president in the league. Her journey underscores the breaking down of barriers and the importance of celebrating women’s achievements in sports.

The Female Festival of Sport, as Michelle describes, is a celebration of the various role’s women hold within sports in the region, providing support and guidance to those aspiring to similar positions. It’s a testament to the collective effort to create a more inclusive and supportive sports community.

Nicola Wojcik’s leap into an unfamiliar field and subsequent leadership roles at AFL Barwon exemplify her dedication to learning and growth. As a mentor, Nicola has facilitated safe spaces for women to share and overcome challenges, reinforcing the importance of support networks. "Listening to those at varying stages in their career and working through issues together has been incredibly rewarding," she shares.

Nicola’s election as a Commissioner for AFL Barwon marked a significant milestone, reflecting her commitment to advocacy and equal representation. "We need to ensure we create a safe and welcoming place where females feel comfortable, safe, valued, and involved," she asserts, championing the need for continued efforts towards inclusivity in sports.

Diana Murase’s journey from competing in the first-ever female full contact Kyokushin Karate All Japan tournament to her leadership role in education showcases her commitment to challenging perceptions and creating opportunities. "It brought me so much joy to see the impact on young girls," she recalls, drawing parallels to the journey of AFLW and its inspiring role models.

Diana’s vision for inclusivity is rooted in acceptance and the celebration of diverse abilities. "We have the ability to create a competition that allows all members of our community to participate," she says. Her inclusive approach emphasizes the broader benefits of sports for individuals and communities alike.

Camryn Sheehan's career trajectory is a testament to the power of following one's passion. With a background in Entertainment & Marketing, Camryn found herself in sports media and marketing while working at a golf club. "I knew I wanted to do something that made a rewarding and positive change in the local community," she recalls. Her transition into AFL Barwon allowed her to witness firsthand the positive impact of her work, especially at games and events where the community spirit shines brightest.

For Camryn, the empowerment of being supported by other women in the workplace has been invaluable. "Always feeling 100% supported by the other women around me at work has been really special," she notes. This supportive environment has boosted her confidence and self-esteem, proving that inclusivity and encouragement can transform careers.

Sharon Skene’s extensive experience in various sporting organizations, including the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Tennis Australia, has shaped her understanding of the importance of female representation in sports. "When at the Australian Grand Prix, Judith Griggs was the first CEO and she was a very inspiring lady," Sharon recalls. This early exposure to successful women in sports leadership roles left a lasting impact on her career.

Sharon believes that women are natural decision-makers and multitaskers, making them invaluable assets in senior positions. Her perspective underscores the need for creating opportunities for women to thrive in sports, both on and off the field. 

Lisa Patterson’s career in sports is driven by her deep passion for community sports and the positive impacts it has had on her life. From playing at a high level to coaching and volunteering, Lisa's involvement in sports has shaped her personally and professionally. "Sport has brought many positive impacts to my life and given me opportunities that I will be forever grateful for," she reflects.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of continued conversations around inclusivity and the celebration of women’s contributions to sports. "Creating that culture of inclusivity and support for females in sport starts from the continued conversation within the sporting community and beyond," she says. Her commitment to advocacy and education aims to foster a more inclusive environment for future generations.

For Chloe Prout, sport has always been a significant part of life, leading her to Geelong and into a supportive work environment. "I've always met the best people through sport," she says. The presence of many females in the office has been empowering, allowing them to support each other and tackle shared challenges.

Chloe emphasizes the importance of social aspects and creating a welcoming culture. "Ensure there are female role models both on and off the field," she advises. Involving the whole club in social functions and supporting those who help clubs function are vital steps toward fostering a supportive community. 

Rachael Kirtley’s lifelong connection to the local football netball scene in Geelong inspired her to contribute positively to these leagues. “I missed the community feel and wanted to challenge the norm,” she says. Her experiences at women’s leadership workshops have been pivotal, showing her the progress made in what was once a male-dominated industry.

Empowering women to take on more roles in sports is crucial, Rachael believes. “We need to celebrate the great work females are doing in the sport industry and acknowledge their contributions”. The visible progress, showcased by the increasing number of females at AFL Barwon, highlights the strides being made towards gender equality in sports.

Sophie Allison’s entry into the sports industry was somewhat opportune, guided by the supportive environment at AFL Barwon. Her involvement in the Female Festival of Sport (FFOS) was a turning point, showcasing the power of women supporting women. The festival highlighted incredible stories from women within the region, providing them a platform to shine. "Being in a room full of people eager to hear from some incredible women, and from men who have worked to support women, was a really empowering experience." The festival highlighted the incredible contributions of women in sports, creating a platform for recognition and celebration.

Sophie’s story underscores the importance of advocacy and building a supportive network. "By ensuring we are advocating for one another in sport and continuing to build a supportive and encouraging environment for those around us, we can achieve anything," she asserts. Her journey underscores the importance of community and mentorship in empowering women and creating a culture where everyone can thrive. "By building one another up, we bring each and every one of us up."

The stories of the women at AFL Barwon are a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of inclusivity, support, and empowerment in sports. From breaking barriers and challenging norms to advocating for equal representation and celebrating achievements, these females are paving the way for future generations.

Their journeys inspire us to continue the conversation, support one another, and build a more inclusive and vibrant sports community.

AFL Barwon  Female Commissioners & Staff

Sophie Allison (AFL Barwon Head of Netball)

Michelle Gerdtz (AFL Barwon Chair)

Rachael Kirtley (AFL Barwon Netball Umpiring Coordinator)

Diana Murase (AFL Barwon Commissioner)

Lisa Patterson (AFL Barwon Group Manager of Operations)

Chloe Prout (AFL Barwon Netball Coordinator)

Paris Rowe (AFL Barwon Female Football & Junior Football Coordinator)

Camryn Sheehan (AFL Barwon Media & Communication Coordinator)

Sharon Skene (AFL Barwon Accounts & Finance Manager)

Nicola Wojcik (AFL Barwon Commissioner)

Experience AFL Barwon on the go on your mobile device today! Full access to news, information and match vision conveniently in your pocket.

Registrations for Trials

Registrations are now open for both GFNL and BFNL Junior Representative Netball Teams.

Trials will be held on the 6^th and 13^th of February, at the Newtown & Chilwell Netball Courts. Times are as follows:

9am – 10:30am – 13 & Under

10:30am – 12pm – 15 & Under

12pm – 1:30pm – 17 & Under

Dress Code: White T-Shirts and dark shorts/skirt are to be worn for all trials (Any player in club or representative uniform will be asked to go home and change)

• Please ensure lower leg is not covered so that a number may be written for selection

Those successful will represent their respective league at the Central West Region Association Championships Day on Sunday 22^nd May 2022.

If successful at the Central West day, teams will then take part in the Association Championships Finals Day on Sunday 24^th of July 2022.

TALENT IDENTIFICATION OPPORTUNITIES

• Players in the 13 & Under group are observed by the Victorian Regional Academy of Sport (VRAS), in partnership with Netball Victoria, to link Regional Academies of sport with high performance pathways.
• Players in the 15 & Under group are observed by Netball Victoria Talent scouts for potential TID invitation to selection for the Zone academy and 17 & Under state teams for the next year.
• Players in the 17 & under group are observed by Netball Victoria Talent scouts for potential invitation to state selection in the 17 & Under or 19 & Under for the next year.

To register your interest, please complete the registration form, found here: https://forms.gle/iMoeHmJqwHrGNLwy6

For any further information please contact Sophie Murley This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Registrations close Monday 31^st of January.

Thanks to the TAC Stat Tracker and Premier Data, season 2019 has seen spectators, coaches and players an unprecedented look at each GFNL game thanks to the TAC Stat Tracker. Every game was monitored by the stat tracker, giving a wide range of statistics beyond just rudimentary kicks and handballs. AFL Barwon was pleased to be a pioneer of what is believed to be a nationwide first for country football. See below the 2019 GFNL team of the year, with exclusive numbers from the TAC Stat Tracker.

BACKLINE

Back Pocket- Scott Frangos (Geelong West Giants)

435 disposals, ave 24.1 per game. 20 spoils, 32 one percenters, 2 goals, 1481 Fantasy Points

Full Back- Ryley Hall (St Mary’s)

139 disposals, ave 9.3 per game. 32 contested marks, 40 spoils, 47 one percenters, 694 Fantasy Points

Back Pocket- Cam Tudor (St Joseph’s)

242 disposals, ave 16.1 per game. 16 contested marks, 22 spoils, 26 one percenters, 92 hit-outs, 6 goals, 1169 Fantasy Points

HALF-BACKLINE

Half-Back- Alex Cincotta (Newtown & Chilwell)

245 disposals, ave 18.8 per game. 20 one percenters, 21 clearances, 60 marks, 6 goals, 14 spoils, 961 Fantasy Points

Centre Half-Back- Adam Garner (Colac)

276 disposals, 18.4 per game. 52 one percenters, 37 contested marks, 44 spoils, 11 goals, 1154 Fantasy Points

Half-Back- Campbell Floyd (Colac)

259 disposals, ave 19.9 disposals. 26 one percenters, 2 goals, 22 spoils, 75 marks, 45 effective tackles, 990 Fantasy Points

CENTRE

Wing- Jarryn McCormack (Colac)

277 disposals, ave 21.3 per game. 17 clearances, 42 effective tackles, 8 goals, 1106 Fantasy Points

Centre- Marcus Thompson (Leopold)

464 disposals, ave 27.2 per game. 57 clearances, 44 effective tackles, 15 goals, 118 effective handballs, 1213 Fantasy Points

Wing- Blake Sutterby (Newtown & Chilwell)

396 disposals, ave 22 per game. 46 clearances, 67 effective tackles, 170 contested possessions, 10 goals, 1274 Fantasy Points

HALF-FORWARDS

Half-forward- Jarryd Garner (St Mary’s)

389 disposals, ave 25.9 per game. 57 clearances, 51 hard ball gets, 125 contested possessions, 7 goals, 1213 Fantasy Points

Centre Half Forward- Lucas Boyd (Leopold)

252 disposals, ave 15.7 per game. 56 goals, 29 behinds, 60 contested marks, 37 deep 50 marks

Half Forward- Jackson Davis (St Joseph’s)

160 disposals, ave 13.3 per game. 12 goals, 9 behinds, 59 effective kicks, 16 clearances, 18 effective tackles, 659 fantasy points

FULL-FORWARDS

Forward Pocket- Luke Hillman (Colac)

222 disposals, ave 13 per game. 30 goals, 23 behinds, 22 deep 50 entries, 57 marks,  1213 Fantasy Points

Full Forward- Andrew Boseley (South Barwon)

183 disposals, ave 11.4 per game. 57 goals, 23 behinds, 89 marks, 33 contested marks, 1106 Fantasy Points

Forward Pocket- Riley Ferguson (St Joseph’s)

226 disposals, ave 18.8 per game. 8 goals, 5 behinds, 33 clearances, 78 effective kicks, 74 contested possession, 871 Fantasy Points

RUCKS

Ruck- Trent West (Leopold)

196 disposals, 12.2 per game. 836 hitouts, 369 hitouts to advantage, 28 clearances, 4 goals, 2264 fantasy points

Ruck Rover- Josh Saunders (South Barwon)

456 disposals, 26.8 per game. 100 clearances, 60 hard ball gets, 179 contested possessions, 5 goals, 45 effective tackles, 1580 fantasy points

Rover- Brant Haintz (St Joseph’s)

311 disposals, 17.2 per game. 67 clearances, 43 hard ball gets, 108 contested possessions, 78 effective tackles, 15 goals, 1380 Fantasy Points

INTERCHANGE

Sam Michael (St Albans)

197 disposals, 16.4 per game. 374 hitouts, 130 hitouts to advantage, 39 clearances, 31 contested marks, 3 goals, 1475 Fantasy Points 

Lachie Patten (Bell Park)

477 disposals, 26.5 per game. 57 clearances, 51 hard ball gets, 165 contested possessions, 14 goals, 55 effective tackles, 1213 fantasy points

Louis Herbert (South Barwon)

209 disposals, ave 20.9 per game, 35 clearances, 20 goals, 88 effective kicks, 53 marks, 978 Fantasy Points

Nick Dixon (North Shore)

332 disposals, ave 30.1 per game, 46 clearances, 112 contested possessions, 28 effective tackles, 5 goals, 66 uncontested marks, 1110 Fantasy Points