The Carlton Football Club has released the outcome of an independent review into its AFLW program.
Read the full Club Statement >>
The review was commissioned to identify barriers to on-field success and improve overall performance, and was led by Errol Amerasekera, Director of Bluestone Edge Consulting. Despite the AFLW program having a big year in 2022, playing two seasons in one year, it didn’t produce the desired results, leading the Board to take proactive measures to explore all avenues for improvement.
The findings of the review indicated that changes within the AFLW football program were necessary, including the Senior Coach position, in order to achieve the objective of the review and establish the foundation for future success. The Board of Directors has received a full briefing of the report and is committed to implementing the necessary changes.
The review found that there were some key barriers to success, including issues with systems, culture, coaching structures, and insufficient leadership to support and drive professionalism and elite behaviours. One of the main findings of the review was that the Senior Coach position must be full-time, leading to the decision to part ways with current coach, Daniel Harford.
The review also found that while staff were passionate and of strong character, there was a need for stronger leadership, and that there was opportunity for players to improve professional standards and behaviours. The review also recommended the development of a clear vision for the AFLW program with a definitive direction and goal.
The club now intends to work with key leaders to implement the recommendations made in the review, with the priority being the recruitment of a full-time AFLW Senior Coach. The club states that their goal remains focused on achieving a premiership, and the expectation and accountability within the AFLW program has risen.
