With more than double the number of players from last year, new women’s AFL coach Evan Ralph is confident it’s going to be an exciting season ahead for the Parkes Panthers.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Twenty five women have so far signed up to play with the Parkes Panthers in the 2018 Central West competition.
That’s 13-17 more players than last season, which was the first time Parkes had fielded a women’s team.
Ralph – a player himself with the Parkes Panthers men’s side – has taken over coaching duties from his brother Jonty Ralph for 2018.
And he said he’s excited for what’s ahead.
“The numbers have built up from last year, which is encouraging,” Ralph said.
“We’re focusing on building on from last year in numbers, skills and performance.”
The side consists of women ranging from 16 years old to 30.
We’re looking forward to growing as a team.
- Ashley Rosser
Those returning for their second year are looking forward to another season of camaraderie with not only their teammates but other players in the competition.
“We’re pumped,” player Amy Bush said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing all the teams again,” teammate Ashley Rosser added.
“We made quite good connections last season.
“And we’re looking forward to growing as a team.”
Danielle Merlino – who played back pocket in 2017 – enjoyed playing last season so much, she returned for 2018.
The 21-year-old said she had never played the sport before and her former boss encouraged her to have a go.
“I was curious,” she said.
“I have a lot of fun playing.”
The side is still looking for players if any women are interested.
Players encourange any women in Parkes thinking of trying AFL, to come and join them.
They said there were plenty of reasons why they wanted to play – including the excitement, a change, camaraderie and fitness.
One player added she loved to tackle.
The team trains every Tuesday and Thursday from 6pm at Northparkes Oval.
Women are invited to show up at training or can contact the Parkes Panthers AFL Club through their Facebook page called Parkes Panthers Central West AFL.
“You don’t have to know how to play, no skill level is needed,” Rosser said.
The Central West Women’s AFL Competition will kick off the same day as the senior men this Saturday, April 28.
Parkes Panthers, in both the men and women, will be meeting with the Bathurst Giants at George Park in Bathurst for Round 1.
