New season for women’s footy
With excitement aplenty following the first round of AFL Women’s at the weekend, the Warragul women’s team is launching into their 2018 campaign with enthusiasm.
And it’s not too late to join the cause, with the club to host a come and try night for players of all abilities in the Youth Girls and seniro women’s groups at its new home ground of Western Park from 6pm on Friday night.
Building on last year’s success of a finals appearance in the South East Women’s Football League development division, women’s team coach Jason Mitchell said it was yet to be determined whether the team would return to the development division or be promoted to division two.
He said the team had been hit by the loss of key players who were exploring a pathway to the elite level, with TarrynOrgill and Stacey Pote trying their luck at VFL level.
Part of last year’s succes story included American Bailey Hurtado, who continued her development after returning to the United States, winning the rookie of the year award.
In a boost for the side, Casey Demons listed VFLplayer Nicole Garner has elected to play for Warragul women when not required for Casey.
Mitchell said the side had otherwise maintained its list, including leading goal kicker Louie Patten who steered through 61 goals last season.
Women’s football president Tony Linford said all were welcome to the come and try night.
“It looks like there will be a Gippsland development league being formed this year, so that is an option should we get the numbers for a second side.”
The women’s side will move home to Western Park, where it will develop a stronger relationship with local club Warragul Industrials.
“The Dusties have taken on women’s and Youth Girls football this year, and we really want to make them a part of the club,” Warragul Industrials Football Club president Dale Bainbridge said.
“We’re hoping to incorporate some games with the Industrials games and make them a real part of the club.”
Following Friday night’s come and try session, pre-season training will take place on Tuesday and Thursday nights.
For more information, phone women’s football president Tony Linford on 0433 833 184.