Gilba Downs WAFLW Camp 2023

2023 has been an opportunity for the Womens program to reset and look to its foundations for a bigger and better 2^nd Season in the WAFLW Competition.

A shift in coaching structures, an influx of new faces and a new Leadership Coach meant it was necessary to bring everyone together away from the club and put them all in a challenging but empowering environment.

Karly & Matt GUADAGNIN opened up their York property GILBA DOWNS to the WAFLW program which played host to more than 30 of our Athletes and entire coaching group.

Head of WAFLW Development Luke Richardson has returned from Gilba Downs with a sense of optimism heading into Season 2023:

“The buy-in was incredible. Friday afternoon saw our coaches explore vulnerability – A really incredible and emotional experience to be a part of.”

“Seeing our house groups on display in such a stunning back drop, being able to observe challenges highlighting leadership, culture and communication – We have a group more connected than ever to the red & blue.”

Steve Hazell, WAFLW Head Coach believes this camp was critical to grounding the group and aligning them on their new journey:

“It’s now about how they live our values. Trust, Selfless, Spirit & Resilient. We now truly understand how these values relate to them. We’ve spent the weekend speaking to and acting on their connections to these values and our club. It’s now very important that our players live these values and it’s our job as coaches to hold them accountable to them.”

This camp wasn’t focused on skill development, game-plan understanding or line-work.

This camp was focused solely on our groups’ ability to connect, seek feedback, understand qualities of leadership, how to communicate effectively and to show a sense of vulnerability that can empower those around you. 

Our WAFLW season commences with a clash against long-time club rivals East Perth on Saturday, March 11^th at Leederville Oval.