A willingness to implement learnings on the track has allowed the North Melbourne Tasmanian Kanagaroos to take major strides in their first season, according to North senior assistant coach Dennis Armfield.

“It’s a great team, the girls have picked up what the coaches are putting out there,” he told SEN.

“Getting involved with North, they’ve welcomed me down with open arms and given me a lot of opportunity to learn and develop myself, not only as a person, but as a coach.”

The Roos are the only unbeaten side in the competition after beating the Demons in a four-point thriller on Sunday.

As a host of North’s stars continue to earn recognition for their performances, Armfield credits their cohesion off the field as a major factor for the group’s success.

“I think forming a relationship is probably priority number one,” he said.

“To get that trust between the coach and players. From there I think it’s just about educating and sharing my experiences, [and] what’s worked for me in the past.”

The benefits of this synergy have proven to be mutually beneficial, with Armfield growing a further affinity for both footy and coaching since arriving at Arden Street.

“It’s been an environment that is very short and sharp, but [with] a lot of learning in the meantime,” he explained.

“It’s been real great, the things that I’ve been able to implement in real life and local footy coaching.

“They pick up on a lot of things and are just willing to ask as many questions as possible. Being able to provide the answers is what I’m here to do, along with the other coaches.

“They’re sponges, they pick it all up and hopefully telling my story and picking up on things that I’ve learnt and can relay down the pathway.”

Despite the short length of the season, the 145-game AFL veteran has underlined the importance of enjoying the journey. 

“You’ve got to have fun in life, that’s a priority as well,” he said.

“I want to form a relationship with the girls and sometimes that can go a little left, right and centre.

“It’s good fun and as long as the girls are enjoying the environment we’re creating at North, that’s priority number one.

“I’m just here to learn as much as I can from Scott (Gowans) and from the male coaching department. They’re here to answer my questions as well.

“I’m all about learning as I’m transitioning. It’s all about learning and growing new skills.”