MELBOURNE has finalised its 2021 AFL Women’s coaching panel, with Tamara Hyett joining as a development coach.

Hyett, who has headed the Sandringham Dragons NAB League Under 18s program for the past three years, will work closely with the Demons’ midfield.

Senior coach Mick Stinear said Hyett’s background and well-rounded approach will be of great benefit to the young group.

“Tam and her team have done a magnificent job developing young players and recently had seven Dragons’ players drafted to AFLW lists,” he told Melbourne Media.

“This is a reflection of Tam and the Dragons’ program, and their commitment to supporting their players during some very challenging months.

“Tam is passionate about Women’s football and developing players at the highest level.

“With the club drafting one 17-year-old and five 18-year-olds this year, her personal approach and experiences will be a perfect fit for our young players.”

A professional golfer who’s completing her Level 3 Coaching Course, Hyett is set to bring a unique perspective to the red and blue.

And having worked with several players before, her established relationships will go a long way in assimilating into the Dees.

“Tam is well known to our group from her involvement at St Kilda City Sharks, and has been a regular visitor to our program as part of her professional development in recent years,” Stinear said.

“She will also team up again with Eliza McNamara, coaching her for a fourth-successive year.”

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Under the leadership of Stinear, Hyett will work alongside Brooke Patterson (backs), Jon Stinear (forwards) and Justin Crough (rucks/stoppages) in development roles this season.

Jane Lange will continue as senior assistant coach, with a focus up forward, while Peter Mercoulia (midfield) and Pat McKenna (backs) will also carry on their responsibilities.

With the 2021 pre-season campaign officially kicking off next week, Stinear said he couldn’t be happier with the mix he has in place.

“We are thrilled to have a team of eight quality coaches to help support and drive our playing group,” he said.

“Our coaching team brings a variety of experience from NAB League girls to senior women’s football and NAB League boys to senior men’s.

“The alignment of development coaches with assistant coaches will allow for greater attention to detail in supporting players’ fundamentals and coaching habits, and the behaviours required to be a great team.

“The club is committed to giving our players the best opportunity to succeed. A stable and experienced coaching group, that are invested in the development of our players, is critical in our quest for the club’s first AFLW Premiership.”

Following a voluntary ‘pre-pre-season’, Melbourne will return to training on November 4, as it prepares for Round 1 in February. 

Melbourne’s 2021 AFLW Coaching Panel

Senior Coach: Mick Stinear
Senior Assistant Coach: Jane Lange (Forwards)
Assistant Coach: Peter Mercoulia (Midfield)
Assistant Coach: Pat McKenna (Backs)
Development Coach: Brooke Patterson (Backs)
Development Coach: Tamara Hyett (Midfield)
Development Coach: Jon Stinear (Forwards/Runner)
Development Coach: Justin Crough (Rucks/Stoppages)