W PROGRAM BOLSTERED

Hot on the heels of the recent appointment of Pia Faletti as Head Coach, South Fremantle’s WAFLW Program has received another boost for the upcoming 2025 season, with the appointment of Natalie Szelid as Senior Assistant Coach.

Szelid crosses to the Kennel from Claremont’s Rogers Cup program, where she has served as Head Coach for the past two seasons. Currently also assisting with the Fremantle Dockers’ Next Generation Academy, she represents a new wave of Women’s football coaches changing the landscape across WA’s State Level competitions.

“I am very excited to join South Fremantle and to apply my knowledge to make a positive impact at League level”, said Szelid.

“I can’t wait to meet the team and get started on what is going to be a very exciting year.”

In addition to Szelid’s appointment, the Bulldogs have also locked away Robbie Turnbull as an Assistant Coach for their upcoming campaign. A member of South Fremantle’s WAFL side, Turnbull made great strides last season in a Skills and Development role, and his responsibilities have been expanded to include a line for 2025.

“Robbie was unbelievable last season, bringing great energy and meticulous planning to his role,” said Manager of Female Football, Sean Pollard.

“We’re looking forward to seeing what he can do with the midfield next season and we’re excited to be a big part of his journey as a Women’s football coach”.

In a new-look coaching setup under Faletti, existing coach Trevor Hinkley will take over Opposition Analysis at the Bulldogs.

“We’re so fortunate to have quality football people like Trev at South Fremantle,” said Pollard.

“He will cast his analytical eye across the W landscape, as well as fulfilling a crucial game-day coaching role and linking in with the much-valued community clubs in our zone.”

With a newly established Leadership program led by AFL Hall of Fame legend, and former Western Bulldogs AFLW Coach Nathan Burke and upgraded Female changerooms on the way, South Fremantle’s WAFLW program will return to Fremantle Community Bank Oval in a wave of enthusiasm later this year.