West Coast Eagles AFLW players continue to play a significant role in shaping the next generation of footballers, taking on influential coaching, development and recruiting roles across Western Australia and beyond.

From senior programs to talent pathways, Eagles AFLW players are making a meaningful impact at community, state and elite levels while continuing their own AFLW journeys.

Several Eagles are embedded in WAFLW and pathway programs, with Jaide Britton coaching midfielders at Perth, Keeley Skepper contributing as a Development Coach at South Fremantle, Belinda Smith leading the midfield group at Claremont and Charlie Thomas coaching Subiaco’s midfield.

Ella Roberts is gaining experience in coaching with the WAFL Eagles men’s program, while Lucia Painter and Jess Rentsch are both assistant coaches in the Rogers Cup system with East Perth and Perth respectively. Bella Lewis is also contributing off field, working within the AFL recruiting department for the West Coast Eagles.

Lauren Wakfer and Kellie Gibson’s were involved with Western Australia’s Under-16 program at the National Development Championships. Kate Orme from WA Football (State Talent Coach - Female Pathways) praised the impact both Eagles players had on the group.

Kellie Gibson

“Lauren took the forwards group for our WA 16s National Development Championships side. Her strengths are her football knowledge and her communication skills,” Orme said.

“A product of the WA pathway herself, Lauren connected strongly with the playing group, sharing valuable insights on both key position and forward craft.

“‘Lauren empowered her forwards to problem solve on-field and was a valuable member of our coaching team.”

Orme also highlighted Gibson’s contribution across the high-performance space.

“Kellie assisted our pathway athletes in the strength and conditioning area,” Orme said.

“Using her decade of AFLW experience, Kellie guided our players with weights, warm up and high-performance education modules like nutrition and recovery.

“Having Lauren and Kellie coach with passion and generosity gave the athletes in our program a terrific experience.”

“No doubt some of our State 16s playing group will appear on AFLW lists in the future and they will be better prepared thanks to the contributions of Lauren and Kellie.”