Two AFLW stars win coaching scholarships to study at US sports programs
Two AFLW players have won scholarships to study coaching in the US next year.
Western Bulldogs co-captain De Berry and Áine Tighe have been awarded AFL Coaches Association scholarships for a 2026 study tour to the US. Berry has spent five years as a senior assistant coach with Panton Hill men's side and has worked with Talent League pathway programs.
Áine Tighe has been sidelined with ACL injuries but has used the time to build her coaching credentials. Tighe currently works as a development coach with the Dockers and has coached Western Australia's U16 and U18 girls' teams.
AFLCA chief executive Alistair Nicholson said both players had demonstrated genuine commitment to coaching development. "We need to continue creating opportunities for more women to pursue coaching careers at the highest level," he said.
- 5 years
- Berry's coaching at Panton Hill
- early 2026
- Study tour timing
- ACL 2020, ACL 2024
- Tighe's injuries
- Alistair Nicholson
- AFLCA CEO
Why it mattersThe AFL is investing in women's coaching pathways, signalling a commitment to grow the female coaching pipeline and increase opportunities for women to reach the highest levels of the sport.
AustraliaAustralian women in football gain access to international high-performance coaching expertise, strengthening the coaching talent pool for domestic AFLW development.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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