Champions of Change: Celebrating Women Coaches in the VAFA

This July, the VAFA proudly joins AFL Victoria in celebrating Women’s Coaching Month, now in its fifth year. The 2025 theme, “Champions of Change,” recognises the powerful role women and girls play in shaping the future of coaching.

In the VAFA, we are proud to acknowledge the incredible contribution of women coaches to our clubs, players, and wider community. This month provides an opportunity to recognise their dedication, amplify their voices, and inspire the next generation of coaches. We would like to share that in 2025, over 50 women coaches are actively leading teams across VAFA clubs. A number that continues to grow each year.

In early June, the VAFA launched its 2025 Women’s Coaching Academy, proudly delivered with support from AFL Victoria. Fourteen coaches representing ten different clubs took part, gaining valuable knowledge, practical tools, and renewed confidence to bring back to their teams. As part of the program, participants received fully funded access to the Elevate Coaching Course (formerly Level 2), ensuring a high-quality development experience at no cost to the coaches. As part of the Academy program, each participant was also aligned with a Coates Talent League club, providing real-time coaching exposure and hands-on experience at elite junior level to support their development.

Beyond the Academy, more than eight VAFA clubs have hosted Coach Your Way sessions aimed at increasing the number of women and girls in coaching. These sessions have seen 60+ new coaches accredited, now actively contributing to their club’s coaching departments. Even more clubs are planning upcoming sessions in collaboration with VAFA and AFL Victoria.

Women’s Coaching Month is not just about recognition; it’s a call to action. We encourage all VAFA clubs to continue creating inclusive, supportive pathways for women and girls to thrive as coaches.

Finally, throughout July, we’ll be sharing videos on VAFA socials featuring inspiring stories from coaches who took part in the VAFA Women’s Coaching Academy sharing their passion, experiences, and advice for others considering the coaching path.

Stay tuned and join us in celebrating the women who are championing change across the VAFA!