The Richmond Football Club is proud to launch the Richmond Elevation Program (REP), an AFLW coaching program designed to identify and enhance the development of female coaches.
The REP will be run by Steve Symonds, who has joined the Tigers’ AFLW coaching staff as Coach Development & Leadership Excellence Lead. Symonds was previously the senior coach of Collingwood’s AFLW team for five seasons from 2020-2023.
Three female coaches will be selected for the 2026 REP program and will be immersed into Richmond’s AFLW High Performance Program across the pre-season and season, helping them gain a deeper understanding of AFLW coaching pathways and high performance environments.
They will receive direct exposure to the professional game, one-on-one mentoring from experienced coaches and football leaders, 12 structured development sessions, weekly practical experiences, rotations across multiple program areas, and more.
“The Richmond Elevation Program gives aspiring female coaches an unrivalled opportunity to gain exposure and understanding to the AFLW industry,” Symonds said.
“I’m so excited to get the program up and running, and for Richmond to provide this fantastic opportunity to female coaches.”
Who should apply?
• Aspire to coach at AFLW or elite football level
• Have coaching, playing, leadership or football administration experience
• Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and development
• Are passionate about growing your coaching capability
• Want to gain experience within an AFLW high-performance environment
How to apply?
Submit an Expression of Interest to Steve Symonds (ssymonds@richmondfc.com.au) by June 12, outlining the following:
• Your coaching aspirations
• Coaching, playing and/or football administration experience
• Why you would like to participate in the program
• What makes you a unique coaching candidate
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview.
