North Melbourne is thrilled to announce AFLW captain Emma Kearney will join the club’s AFL coaching group as part of the Women’s Coach Acceleration Program.
North Melbourne was awarded one of nine positions in the Women’s Coach Acceleration Program, designed to fast-track the development of women in coaching and assist in their progression to senior coaching roles across both AFL and AFLW programs.
A qualified teacher, Kearney joined the club’s community arm The Huddle in 2019 as Head of Education, a role she has held for four years.
Kearney will transition into a full-time role as player development coordinator and development coach in late November.
The newly created role will see Kearney provide support, guidance and education to the club’s 1-3 year players within the AFL program with a specific focus on player development, personal development and coaching.
Working closely with head of development, Gavin Brown, Kearney will assist with players’ holistic development both on and off the field, allowing them to perform to the best of their ability and enhance their personal growth.
“The ability to work with some of the greatest coaches including Alastair Clarkson was a big reason why I wanted to take on the challenge,” Kearney said.
“For me, as an educator I really enjoy working with young people and helping them out. Sometimes people forget that footballers, particularly when they come into the system, are young people.
“I feel like I’m going to enjoy working with some young boys and helping them be as successful as they possibly can.”
North Melbourne’s general manager of football Todd Viney said the club is really pleased to have Kearney join the AFL men’s program later this month.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for all involved, we are really pleased to see Emma take on this opportunity,” Viney said.
“Emma has been and continues to be an outstanding leader in our AFLW program, she lives and breathes the club values and is committed to becoming better in whatever she does.
“Emma’s sporting achievements speak volumes, her football nous teamed with her extensive experience in education make her the perfect fit for this role.
“We look forward to Emma making an impact, our players and our program overall will benefit from her presence and expertise.”
