Marcus Abney-Hastings has been named the coach of the Northern Knights’ TAC Cup Girls side.
Abney-Hastings was involved at the Knights this year as an assistant coach in the boys program, having previously spent three years at VFL side Coburg.
Knights’ talent manger Rhy Gieschen said the club rated Abney-Hastings very highly.
Abney-Hastings replaces Rebecca Privitelli, who couldn’t continue in the role after being picked up by Greater Western Sydney’s AFLW team.
“He is keen to coach and manage a program of his own,” Gieschen said.
“He’s not only a quality coach but a fantastic person also.
“His ability to create relationships, communicate effectively and break down the game will be a huge asset for the program and I have no doubt he’ll give the girls every opportunity to develop in all areas of their game and overall football knowledge”
Abney-Hastings isn’t he only appointment for Knights, with Zoe Slatter becoming the club’s first female talent coordinator.
Slatter is the sports academy coordinator at Diamond Valley College.
Gieschen believes the new role will bring more stability to program which is in its second year of existence.
“The appointment of Zoe to coordinate the program will provide some real expertise and ensure the girls program is well run, organised and managed.
“Her drive, energy and enthusiasm to grow the program to be a leading development program in Australia for young talented females has already been on show in her short time with the Knights and we all look forward to working with her.”
The Knights talent search day held last week, had more than 120 girls attend and test.
