West Coast have secured AFLW icon Daisy Pearce on a new deal that will see her become the Eagles’ longest-serving women’s coach as they fight to stay in the finals hunt.
Pearce, who is currently leading the Eagles in her third season, signed a two-year extension on Friday ahead of a must-win game against Geelong if they are to keep their finals hopes alive.
“To have another two years to go to work with our players and to do anything I can to help them develop is exciting. It’s a real privilege that West Coast see me as the right person to do it,” she said.
“I would like to thank Don (Pyke), Michelle (Cowan), ‘Woosh’ (John Worsfold) and our coaching staff for their patience and guidance.
“The Club has shown a genuine investment in our AFLW Program; there are hardworking people here who are driven to succeed and it makes me really optimistic about where this team is headed.
The premiership captain and three-time All-Australian is by far the most successful Eagles women’s coach, having led the club to a maiden finals campaign last season and a first western derby win this year.
While the Eagles face an uphill challenge to make back-to-back finals series, needing to win their final three games, Pearce was excited for the opportunity.
“On a personal level I’m really grateful for the support the Club has given me and my family over the past three years, their belief in me as a coach and more recently their understanding while we worked through a big decision to continue on in WA,” Pearce said.
“I am glad to have this locked away and look forward to the rest of our season, three big challenges that will give us a great opportunity to keep testing ourselves against the best.”
Head of women’s football Michelle Cowan said, it was clear on and off the field how much Pearce’s influence has elevated the standards at the club.
“Daisy has taken our program to new heights, both on and off the field,” Head of Women’s Football Michelle Cowan said. “The relationships she builds are exceptional, and she creates an environment where people feel valued, challenged and empowered to be their best.
“Her recommitment for another two years is huge for our Club and the future of our program.” West Coast CEO Don Pyke said Pearce’s re-signing was a significant move for both Daisy and the club. “Daisy is an outstanding person and leader, and we know how committed and passionate she is to develop our players and coaches to reach their full potential and deliver sustained success for our AFLW team,” Pyke said. “In a short period of time, she has built strong relationships across the Club, while fostering a high-performance culture and demanding elite standards to keep driving our team forward. “We couldn’t be more pleased that she will remain senior coach at West Coast for a further two years and look forward to an exciting future together.”