Geelong Cats AFL Development Coach Daisy Pearce will depart GMHBA Stadium to take up the position of Senior Coach with the West Coast Eagles’ AFLW team.
Pearce joined the Cats ahead of the 2023 Toyota AFL Season in a development role, as part of the AFL’s Women’s Coach Acceleration Program.
The former Melbourne premiership captain followed up an impressive 55-game AFLW career with the transition into coaching with the Cats’ men’s program, taking on a multifaceted role that saw her participate in game planning sessions, match committee meetings, be part of the match day coaching box, and work closely with the Club’s 1-4 year players.
“While we’re disappointed to lose Daisy from our AFL program, we understand the significance of this opportunity, and wish her every success in her new role with the Eagles,” Geelong Cats General Manager of Football Andrew Mackie said.
“When Daisy joined the club through the Coaching Acceleration program, it was to fast-track her development and expand her existing skills and knowledge, whilst giving greater insight into the workings of a football department as a coach, and the program has delivered just that.
“This is just the next step in what looks set to be a long, exciting journey for Daisy in the AFL and AFLW coaching space, and we were thrilled to have been part of the start of that journey.”
Pearce thanked the Geelong Football Club for the opportunity to be part of its coaching staff in 2023.
“I’m grateful for the care and support I received in my role as a development coach with Geelong, and leave the Club fortunate to have learnt from some of the best minds in the business,” Pearce said.
“In particular, I’d like to thank Steve Hocking, Chris Scott and Nigel Lappin, who have all been incredible role models and mentors in my first season coaching in the AFL.
“Geelong is widely revered from the outside for its high performing culture and outstanding people. To have the opportunity to be inside the Club exceeded the external perception and was a privilege.
“All that I have learned at Geelong will hold me in good stead as I embark on my next chapter with the Eagles’ AFLW program, and I’m excited to be able to continue my development as a coach.”
