Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Month – August

The VAFA is proud to celebrate the outstanding contributions of coaches who go above and beyond to support their clubs and embody the values of our community. Each month, we receive nominations that highlight inspiring stories of dedication, leadership, and impact and July was no different.

The Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Month for August is Jess Welford from Parkdale Vultures. 

The VAFA is pleased to recognise Jess Welford from Parkdale Vultures as the August Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Month after a remarkable season leading the club’s Senior Women’s program. 

When Parkdale entered the 2026 season without a Senior Women’s Coach, Jess stepped up to fill the void, taking on the challenging role of playing coach while continuing to be one of the team’s most influential players. 

Having been a part of Parkdale’s women’s program since its inaugural VAFA season in 2019, Jess has established herself as a highly respected leader and consistent performer. A regular contributor in the club’s Best and Fairest count and one of the side’s most athletic and dynamic players, she embraced the added responsibility of coaching and quickly became the driving force behind the team’s success. 

Under Jess’ leadership, Parkdale produced an outstanding home-and-away campaign to finish on top of the ladder. Even more impressively, she helped create a positive and inclusive team environment that brought players together and continued to strengthen women’s football at the club. 

Since being nominated for the award, Jess has guided Parkdale to the Division 3 Women’s premiership, delivering the club’s first-ever women’s football premiership and capping off an extraordinary season. 

Parkdale President Terry Symons praised Jess’s efforts throughout the year. 

“Were so proud of Jess’ achievements this year with the hard role of being a Playing Coach. With limited numbers, Jess never gave up on fielding a team each week. Winning a maiden premiership this year was highly deserved from all the hard work she put in.” 

Jess’ willingness to step into a critical leadership role, combined with her ability to unite her playing group and deliver success both on and off the field, makes her a deserving recipient of the August Coach of the Month award. 

The VAFA congratulates Jess Welford on a fantastic season and on helping lead Parkdale to a historic premiership year. 

Nominations for September are now open!  

Submit your nominations for Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Month here.