Lauren Tesoriero, Nathan Chapman, Ryan Ferguson and Andrew Browne at Richmond AFLW training

Richmond has confirmed its 2021 AFLW coaching panel ahead of the upcoming season.

Ryan Ferguson, who was announced as the Head Coach in November, will be assisted by Nathan Chapman (Forwards), Lauren Tesoriero (Backline) and Andrew Browne (Midfield and Stoppages).

Chapman is returning for a second year in the Richmond AFLW coaches box, while Tesoriero, who played four games and was a member of the leadership group last season, has transitioned into the coaching set-up.

Tesoriero has a wealth of experience in the competition, having played in Collingwood and Richmond’s inaugural AFLW teams.

The 34-year-old is a highly respected figure at Richmond, with a strong understanding of the program and players. She has previously coached high-level netball and been an assistant for Richmond VFLW and Mount Evelyn senior men’s football.

Tesoriero during her stint as an assistant coach of Richmond VFLW

Chapman, a former 76-game AFL player, has become an important part of the Richmond Women’s program, working closely as a specialist coach with players across the past two years. He has moved into the forward line-coaching role while still maintaining skill acquisition and specialist coaching duties.

Browne, 30, returns to Richmond after playing 12 games at the Club across four seasons from 2009 and 2012.

The former ruckman has since started a coaching career, most recently as senior coach of Mansfield in the strong Goulburn Valley League.

Andrew Browne contests the ruck during the 2011 AFL Round 14 match between the Richmond Tigers and the Melbourne Demons at the MCG, AFL Photos.

Richmond Head of Women’s Football, Kate Sheahan, said the trio of assistant coaches would complement Ferguson well.

“We are happy to have Nathan, Lauren, and Andrew locked in for this season, and each of them is really looking forward to helping our players to become the best footballers they can be,” she said.

“We have four hard-working and diligent coaches that will be fantastic for our group of girls.

“Ryan (Ferguson) will also work closely with Lauren as a mentor to assist her individual development as a promising young female coach which is something the Club is greatly excited about.”

Tesoriero and Chapman played an important caretaker role along with High-Performance Manager Matt Parker, taking training sessions and managing player loads across the winter period and prior to Ferguson’s appointment.

Popular former Richmond VFLW assistant coach, Liz Quinn will continue in a Culture and Leadership position within the AFLW program.

Richmond will start its AFLW season against Brisbane at the Swinburne Centre on January 31.