The VFLW Tigers have begun their pre-season campaign, with 45 players fighting for a spot on the Club’s 2018 list.
Players travelled from across Victoria to attend Wednesday night’s first official training session, as the VFLW Tigers prepare for their Round 1 clash against the Western Bulldogs on Saturday, May 5.
Richmond’s AFLW football operations manager Kate Sheahan said it marked an exciting time for the Club and its inaugural players, coaches and staff.
“I came on board at Richmond in June of 2017 and at that point in time there was literally no women’s football at this football club,” Sheahan said.
“I was the first employee and since then we’ve managed to employ two coaches, a physio, a doctor, a welfare officer and 45 really lucky girls.
“It’s been a long journey but a terrific journey, one I feel really privileged to be able to be in this position where we are starting something from scratch.
“I’ve got this really good feeling that its going to be terrific and that we’re going to create an environment for these girls that they’re never, ever going to want to leave.”
Richmond was granted a VFLW licence for 2018, before the Club is set to enter the AFLW competition in 2020.
Sheahan said she was focused on building a strong culture at the Club, that encompasses both male and female football.
“We’ve been pretty honest and open that the 2018 and 2019 VFL seasons are about building for AFLW in 2020,” Sheahan said.
“It’s a unique position but as long as we support each other and the girls encourage each other, and that’s been our message.
“Our message is that we support one another no matter how big or small the issue is, we encourage each other and no one in this group, whether it’s the property steward to the best player to the coaching staff is any more less important than anyone else.
“Respect and treating people equally is a massive part of our focus and from the energy and enthusiasm (at training on Wednesday night) I think we’re on a really good path.”
A physiotherapist by trade, Kennedy spent five years with Bendigo Thunder, where she played in three Grand Finals and won two premierships.
Richmond’s VFLW and Academy coach Tom Hunter said there was an overwhelming feeling of excitement around the Club.
“That excitement to be able to be a part of something and build something from day one is what lured me to (this coaching position),” Hunter said.
“We… have the ability to create something as successful as we want it to be, or as average as we want it to be, and that’s what it’s going to come down to - what you’re willing to put into it.”
The VFLW Tigers will take on the Western Bulldogs at Victoria University Western Oval in Round 1 on Saturday, May 5.
To view the full fixture, click here.
