Collingwood is pleased to announce its 2023 VFLW coaching panel with Senior Coach Chloe McMillan to lead the program for a fourth consecutive season.
Brett Alexander, Emma Kent and Colin Wallington will serve as assistant coaches while former player Cahlia Haslam will join the group as a Development Coach.
McMillan, 28, is also taking part in the AFL’s Women’s Coach Acceleration Program which sees her fulfill a development coaching role in Collingwood’s AFL men’s program.
Both Alexander and Kent return to the Club’s VFLW program having served as assistant coaches over the past two seasons.
Alexander will take charge of the midfield group while Kent - a graduate of Collingwood’s own Coach Acceleration Program - will oversee the backline.
Wallington joins the Pies following four seasons as Senior Coach of Diamond Creek’s Division One women’s side in the Northern Football League (NFNL) where he led the team to a maiden premiership earlier this year.
Wallington will take charge of the Pies’ forward line this season.
As a former member of the Pies’ playing group, Haslam was forced to cut short her playing career due to injury.
Last season, the 26-year-old worked closely with the coaching group but will officially step into a coaching role this season.
McMillan said this coaching group is well-rounded and provides a solid foundation for the season ahead.
“With a diverse set of coaching skills, this team of coaches have a lot to offer this program and they are all extremely passionate about getting the most out of this group,” McMillan said.
“Brett and Emma are two hard-working individuals who are highly-respected amongst the program and to have them return provides great stability for the group.
“Colin brings a strong knowledge of the game and during his time with us already he has been a wonderful fit.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Cahlia to take the next step in her football career. Collingwood is committed to the development of female coaches and this new role is a great opportunity for her to further develop her understanding of the game.
“The squad returned to pre-season training last week and it’s been great to see the group’s enthusiasm and eagerness to get started. We’re looking forward to continuing to drive elite standards within this program and along with our coaches and support staff, we’re in a great position to achieve success in 2023.”
The 2023 VFLW fixture is yet to be released.
Collingwood’s 2023 VFLW Coaching Panel:
- Chloe McMillan: VFLW Senior Coach and AFL Development Coach
- Brett Alexander: Assistant Coach (Midfield)
- Emma Kent: Assistant Coach (Back Line)
- Colin Wallington: Assistant Coach (Forward Line)
- Cahlia Haslam: Development Coach
