Falcons fly into history with first female co-coaches

One year after creating history with the club’s first-ever female head coach, Albert Park FNC is delighted to announce the appointment of two female co-coaches for the 2023 VAFA season.

Dani Distefano will join Robbie-Lee Stephen at the helm of the senior women’s side following Robbie’s incredibly successful first year in charge resulted in promotion to Division 2 and an inaugural grand final appearance.

Dani, who commenced her coaching journey with ANU Griffins in 2022, said she couldn’t be more excited to be part of the first all-female senior coaching duo at the club.

“The positive club culture and the recent success of the women’s team made it a very easy decision,” she said.

“I look forward to building on my already established relationship with Robbie, and hopefully leading the team to the ultimate success in 2023 and beyond.”

Dani has built a remarkable resume since starting her football career in Canberra in 2017 where she captained the Griffins to their first premiership two years later.

She then played two seasons for the Eastlake Demons FC in the AFL Canberra Women’s First Grade Competition before returning to the Griffins as assistant coach and leading them to another flag.

The club moved quickly to reappoint Robbie following the women’s side’s sensational season whereby they won 11 of their 14 games and came within two points of premiership success.

“I’m very grateful to be given the opportunity to work with this talented group of women again in season 2023,” she said.

“Dani is going to be an incredible addition to our team.

“I’ve witnessed firsthand her talent, experience, and passion for women’s football, and I know she’ll develop our players and drive our group towards success.

“I can’t imagine a better fit and I’m so excited to co-coach with her.”