vfl.com.au talk to Richmond VFLW coach Tom Hunter about the team’s upcoming Swisse Wellness VFL Women’s season.
COACH: Tom Hunter
CAPTAIN: Jess Kennedy
NOTABLE AFL W PLAYERS: Amelia Barden, Emma King, Lauren Tesoriero (Collingwood), Louise Stephenson (GWS Giants)
SEASON START: Southern Saints (Skybus Stadium), Darebin (Swinburne Centre), Collingwood (Olympic Park Oval) – CLICK HERE to view the 2018 fixture
Name up to three recruits you expect will make an impact this year ?
Jessica Kennedy – Jess has spent time with the Carlton AFLW program and Diamond Creek FC in 2017 and since joining our VFLW program has been very influential player on and off the track. She leads by example, setting standards and has grown as a fantastic leader, helping the players around her grow as footballers.
Lauren Tesoriero – Lauren joins our VFLW program having played for the Collingwood FC in the first two seasons of AFLW. She brings experience, a strong body and clean hands in the air or at ground level.
Courtney Wakefield – Courtney has a fantastic story, travelling from Top Hut (North of Mildura) for training each week. On field, she has as a presence in the forward line and a nice balance of composure and competitor.
What has it been like starting a list from scratch and what were the aims?
We’ve had a focus on growth and developing our players as footballers. The overarching aim has been to create and maintain an elite environment, where the girls feel supported and challenged to get the best out of themselves and those around them.
Which player/s have impressed you the most on the track this pre-season?
Jenna Colwell, with her willingness to compete and have a presence around the ball.
Evelyn Burry and Emma Gunn have lead the way with their running, along with Jacqui Graham who has stood out with her decision making during drills.
Which players do you believe will be on the AFL W draft radar this season?
Kate Dempsey, Alice Edmonds, Emma Gunn, Jacqueline Graham
Leadership group?
Jessica Kennedy will be our captain this year as voted by our players, with consultation with the coaching panel. Elise Hogan and Kate Dixon will be our vice captains.
Any famous football names / family connections on the list this season?
Natarsha Bamblett is the niece of Les Bamblett former Melbourne and Footscray forward.
Who is on your assistant coaching panel this year?
Shaun Smith – previously with St. Kilda Sharks
Paul Griffiths – works in the Richmond VFL program
