The Western Bulldogs have confirmed their AFLW coaching panel for season 2022 with some big names headlining the group.
After a disappointing end to 2021 that saw the Dogs miss out on finals, senior coach Nathan Burke, along with these new appointments, will be hoping to help the girls climb back up the ladder this coming season.
Injured Western Bulldogs forward, Josh Bruce will take on a role as a development coach alongside former AFLW player Kirby Bentley.
Bruce ruptured his ACL in the Bulldogs' Round 21 clash with the Bombers and whilst he continues to undergo rehabilitation the forward will work on his coaching resume.
Alongside Bruce, James Kennedy and former St Kilda defender Dylan Roberton will also be joining the kennel.
Kennedy will take on the role as the new ruck coach as he has experience in the same role in the NAB League’s Eastern Ranges.
Throughout his cross-code sporting background, he has also been a mentor to three AFLW draftees in Keeley Sherar (Carlton), El Chaston (Collingwood) and Georgia Campbell (Melbourne).
Roberton is also no stranger to the footy field as a former Docker and Saint where he played 129 games across both clubs. He announced his retirement earlier this year and will take up the role as the Dogs forward coach.
Bulldogs’ General Manager of Women’s Football, Debbie Lee, shared her excitement for these three appointments.
“To have people of this calibre join our AFLW program for season 2022 is great, not only for our players but for our entire program,” Lee said.
“It’s been extremely pleasing to welcome our new additions to the Kennel, having officially started pre-season last week.
“Led by ‘Burkey’, we’re extremely confident in our coaching panel and believe the program will benefit greatly moving forward.”
The AFLW season is set to commence in early January.
