From Prez John O'Rourke:As members would be aware, the Club commissioned a comprehensive external review of our AFLW program in
October. We could not ignore our on-field results this season and the Board is determined to build a program that
gives our female athletes the best chance of success.
The Board and management thoroughly considered the findings of the review, and it was decided that Ryan
Ferguson would not be retained as senior coach and that Kate Sheahan’s role as Executive Head of Women’s
Football would be made redundant and replaced by the elevated role of General Manager- Women’s Football,
reporting directly to the CEO.
I want to acknowledge the unwavering commitment of both Ryan and Kate. They are great football people that
built the Club’s AFLW program from the ground up and that has taken enormous energy, passion and care. We
wish them well for whatever lies ahead.
Other recommendations were made to management to address internal alignment and accountability, leadership,
list-build and communications. These will be addressed during the off-season.Despite the difficult season on-field, congratulations must go to Monique Conti on a seventh consecutive
Richmond AFLW best and fairest. We are so blessed to have Mon as part of our Club, and we know her passion
and drive will continue to help our program going forward.
It was also terrific to see Ellie McKenzie back on the podium this season in second place. Ellie is another
supremely talented player who had a fantastic season. Congratulations to all the award winners on the night.
https://resources.richmondfc.com.au/aflc-rich/document/2025/12/19/c8c7ef97-e0eb-4fbe-be33-c20120618dc3/RFC-FY25-Concise-Annual-Report-signed-18.12.25-.pdf
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and average games played (58.7). Former No.1 draft pick Sam Lalor will look to continue his development, while a full season from luckless defender Josh Gibcus would be huge.
