Two of New South Wales’ rising female coaching talents recently travelled to Melbourne after being selected to take part in the AFL’s National Coach Your Way Program.
The National Coach Your Way Program recognises 20 of the nation’s most promising coaches – nominated by their respective State Coaching Manager – who have demonstrated an enduring commitment to advancing their craft, made a meaningful impact within their community, and have an ambition to continuing their development along the coaching pathway.
As part of the program, the talented coaches attended a three-day coaching conference in Melbourne and have opportunities throughout the year to connect, build their network and continue their coaching development.
The conference saw the coaches consider personal leadership with Andi Pert, while Carol Fox helped the group master communication skills.
St Kilda General Manager of AFLW Jessie Mulholland also shared insights into the operations of an elite football department, while Melbourne AFLW Assistant Coach Shae Sloane dissected game strategy.
NSW/ACT was represented by Sam Apps of the Newtown Breakaways, and Tara Moran of the Cronulla Sharks Junior AFL Club – both bringing an impressive breadth of experience and credentials to their place in the program.
In 2025, Apps was announced as the Chemist Warehouse AFLW Community Ambassador for NSW/ACT, which celebrates community football representatives across the country whose contributions have played pivotal roles in the development of women and girls’ footy in their communities.
Apps has also recently signed on as a Coach Developer for AFL NSW/ACT, tasked with the development and growth of women and girls in coaching across the state and territory.
In addition to her role at the Cronulla Sharks Junior AFL Club, Moran has also joined the St George Dragons Australian Football Club and in 2025 was appointed to the South Sydney coaching list for the esteemed Sydney Swans Academy.
“It was a huge privilege to be selected for this program, which provided me with valuable insights, tools and resources for footy and beyond,” said Moran.
“The facilitators ensured there was the right balance of fun, education and development.
“Working with like-minded women from around the country, leveraging different experiences and perspectives, has given me great knowledge and tools, instilling the important role women play in footy.
“(This) program empowers coaches to lead with confidence, connection, and authenticity, lifting the profile and inspiring participation of female coaching across every level of the game.”
The experience at the conference also struck a chord with Apps.
“It was an incredible opportunity in so many ways,” she said.
“It was a huge privilege to be on the program alongside the most incredible group of women – from dual premiership players and AFLW captains to grassroots community coaches, there was instant bonding and a huge sense of mutual respect for the very different but equally important roles we all play.
“The program helped many of us push past the sense of imposter syndrome to appreciate that we all bring something unique and valuable to the game.
“I’ll never be an elite/AFLW coach, but the role I play in community footy as a coach, mentor and recruiter of female coaches has real value to growing our game and ensuring there is a safe and inclusive place for all women and girls who want to get involved in any capacity.”
To learn more about AFL Coaching, visit play.afl/coach