By Tara Murray
Westmeadows women’s side has made a real focus on rebuilding its culture, creating stronger connections between players, and making sure everyone feels supported and valued.
After going through the Essendon District Football League premier division season last year with a win, the Tigers have had the chance to reset in division 1 this season.
While the focus has been on the culture on and off the field, a win in round one was a nice feeling for the group which hadn’t won since June 2023.
Coach Gemma Wright said it was nice to finally get that win.
“It was so good personally after not winning a game last season,” she said. “It has been good for the club dropping down a division.
“It gave us time to regroup. We have some pretty decent players who have played high level footy.
“It didn’t come easy enough for me and at half time I was still worried. It was so good for the girls.
“There’s a few senior players who have stayed loyal to the club and to me, it’s nice for them and me.”
Wright said the biggest focus for the group this season had been changing the culture.
She said the vibe around the club had shifted and the coaching group has been incredible in backing the girls and driving that change.
After having two teams for a number of years, the club has gone back to one this season.
Wright said it made the playing group more accountable and they were pushing each other more.
“The vibe around the club has shifted, and the coaching group has been incredible in backing the girls and driving that change,” she said.
“We are building that trust and commitment and putting our best foot forward. It showed on the weekend.
While the Tigers lost some players in the off season, they’ve added some back into the group led by Kayla Glazebrook, who Wright said killed it in round one.
Wright said the club and committee was right behind what they were doing and there was that clear investment in the group.
Nat Scott, who had been coaching the reserves side, is working alongside Wright with the senior team this season.
Wright said it was fantastic to have her support, making it easier on her being a playing coach
The group is aiming to play finals this season, with Wright making it clear it was about achieving that through playing the right way.
“We want the players to feel proud to pull on the jumper.”
The Tigers face Tullamarine in round two under lights at Willowbrook Reserve in a twilight match.
