Keilor Park’s women’s side is returning for the 2024 season.
The Devils were a part of the Essendon District Football League’s inaugural women’s competition, however did not return after Covid.
Now the Devils are ready to make a return under the watch and guidance of coach Luke Baker.
Baker comes to the club with an experienced women’s coaching background, having spent five years as an assistant coach in the Western Region Football League.
During his time in the WRFL he contributed as an assistant coach to the establishment of two inaugural teams, Tarneit and Werribee Centrals, he made and won a final in his second year with Centrals, was a 2022 premiership assistant coach at Caroline Springs and 2023 grand finalists at the Lakers.
Now Baker is ready to take the reins of his own team.
“It’s a great opportunity overall,” he said.
“To get a women’s team back out there, obviously the women’s competition in every league is growing, I’ve been involved in coaching senior women for a while now so it’s something I’m passionate about.
“We’re looking to establish a strong women’s program… the whole club has put a lot of time and effort into getting the women’s side up and going.
“So I’m very lucky and very happy to be here because they are giving me a lot of support.
“Getting numbers and getting interest is obviously the first and foremost key, you need a team on the park before you can start playing around with what you want to do.
“And then create a good bond between the girls and the club, the club’s already doing really well with the support and the men’s side is fully behind supporting the women’s which is great.”
While there is interest at the club from a variety of women, Baker’s message is clear for those who are wanting to try it out, even if they never had before.
“The main thing is, you can’t really comment on something until you try it, so always give it a go,” he said.
“You might be surprised at how much you actually love it.
“That’s what creates good club culture, and it helps with day to day life as well.
“Give it a crack, you never know. If it’s not for you, it’s not for everybody but you don’t know unless you give it a go.”
If you are interested in playing for the Devils you can contact Baker on 0402 724 621.
Harper Sercombe
