West Coast Eagles Head of Women’s Football Michelle Cowan will step away from her role to oversee the club’s new Leadership Immersion Program for external organisations.
A highly respected figure and one of the game’s most accomplished female administrators, Cowan has been a trailblazer for women in football.
She recently served as General Manager for Australia in the international clash with Ireland and will bring extensive high-performance experience to West Coast’s new leadership program.
“Having been part of AFLW since the start it’s been a difficult decision to step away from the competition and our program,” Cowan said.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the players, staff and everyone who has been part of the AFLW journey.
“While leaving the role is bittersweet, I’m excited for a new challenge at the club, leading and bringing to life our Leadership Immersion Program.
“I know the AFLW program is in great hands under Daisy Pearce and this playing group.
“This group is really driven to be a premiership team, and I have every belief they will be and I’ll be watching on as a very proud fan.”
Cowan’s football journey features experience across a variety of organisations, including development coaching with Melbourne’s AFL team and as the Demons’ senior coach in women’s exhibition games.
She was appointed Fremantle’s inaugural AFLW coach before joining the Eagles ahead of the club’s entry into the competition.
Cowan transitioned into football administration in 2021 and, working alongside Pearce, was instrumental in West Coast qualifying for AFLW finals for the first time last year.
Head of Football John Worsfold lauded Cowan’s impact on West Coast’s women’s football program.
“Michelle has been an integral part of the AFLW program we have built over eight seasons,” Worsfold said.
“We are very proud of the way our AFLW group contribute to the progress of our club and how they live our values, with our program consistently rating very highly in AFLPA surveys.
“Michelle is committed, professional, compassionate and loyal and these characteristics have shone through in her time leading the AFLW program.
“We wish Michelle well in her next opportunity with the club and thank her for an outstanding contribution to our women’s football program.”
West Coast will provide an update on the appointment process for the Head of Women’s Football position in due course.
