Females Shaping the Future of AFL Barwon

This week we celebrate the Females in Sport across the Barwon region; this includes the Commissioners and Staff at AFL Barwon who play an integral role in facilitating Football and Netball competitions.

Females are stepping into roles traditionally dominated by men, transforming the landscape of sports administration and leadership. The stories of perseverance, empowerment, and passion are not only changing the game but also setting new standards for inclusivity and support in sports.

Michelle Gerdtz’s presidency at Bell Park FNC and her election of AFL Barwon Chair highlight the progress women have made in sports leadership. "What's taken so long!" she wondered upon learning she was the first female president in the league. Her journey underscores the breaking down of barriers and the importance of celebrating women’s achievements in sports.

The Female Festival of Sport, as Michelle describes, is a celebration of the various role’s women hold within sports in the region, providing support and guidance to those aspiring to similar positions. It’s a testament to the collective effort to create a more inclusive and supportive sports community.

Nicola Wojcik’s leap into an unfamiliar field and subsequent leadership roles at AFL Barwon exemplify her dedication to learning and growth. As a mentor, Nicola has facilitated safe spaces for women to share and overcome challenges, reinforcing the importance of support networks. "Listening to those at varying stages in their career and working through issues together has been incredibly rewarding," she shares.

Nicola’s election as a Commissioner for AFL Barwon marked a significant milestone, reflecting her commitment to advocacy and equal representation. "We need to ensure we create a safe and welcoming place where females feel comfortable, safe, valued, and involved," she asserts, championing the need for continued efforts towards inclusivity in sports.

Diana Murase’s journey from competing in the first-ever female full contact Kyokushin Karate All Japan tournament to her leadership role in education showcases her commitment to challenging perceptions and creating opportunities. "It brought me so much joy to see the impact on young girls," she recalls, drawing parallels to the journey of AFLW and its inspiring role models.

Diana’s vision for inclusivity is rooted in acceptance and the celebration of diverse abilities. "We have the ability to create a competition that allows all members of our community to participate," she says. Her inclusive approach emphasizes the broader benefits of sports for individuals and communities alike.

Camryn Sheehan's career trajectory is a testament to the power of following one's passion. With a background in Entertainment & Marketing, Camryn found herself in sports media and marketing while working at a golf club. "I knew I wanted to do something that made a rewarding and positive change in the local community," she recalls. Her transition into AFL Barwon allowed her to witness firsthand the positive impact of her work, especially at games and events where the community spirit shines brightest.

For Camryn, the empowerment of being supported by other women in the workplace has been invaluable. "Always feeling 100% supported by the other women around me at work has been really special," she notes. This supportive environment has boosted her confidence and self-esteem, proving that inclusivity and encouragement can transform careers.

Sharon Skene’s extensive experience in various sporting organizations, including the Australian Grand Prix Corporation and Tennis Australia, has shaped her understanding of the importance of female representation in sports. "When at the Australian Grand Prix, Judith Griggs was the first CEO and she was a very inspiring lady," Sharon recalls. This early exposure to successful women in sports leadership roles left a lasting impact on her career.

Sharon believes that women are natural decision-makers and multitaskers, making them invaluable assets in senior positions. Her perspective underscores the need for creating opportunities for women to thrive in sports, both on and off the field. 

Lisa Patterson’s career in sports is driven by her deep passion for community sports and the positive impacts it has had on her life. From playing at a high level to coaching and volunteering, Lisa's involvement in sports has shaped her personally and professionally. "Sport has brought many positive impacts to my life and given me opportunities that I will be forever grateful for," she reflects.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of continued conversations around inclusivity and the celebration of women’s contributions to sports. "Creating that culture of inclusivity and support for females in sport starts from the continued conversation within the sporting community and beyond," she says. Her commitment to advocacy and education aims to foster a more inclusive environment for future generations.

For Chloe Prout, sport has always been a significant part of life, leading her to Geelong and into a supportive work environment. "I've always met the best people through sport," she says. The presence of many females in the office has been empowering, allowing them to support each other and tackle shared challenges.

Chloe emphasizes the importance of social aspects and creating a welcoming culture. "Ensure there are female role models both on and off the field," she advises. Involving the whole club in social functions and supporting those who help clubs function are vital steps toward fostering a supportive community. 

Rachael Kirtley’s lifelong connection to the local football netball scene in Geelong inspired her to contribute positively to these leagues. “I missed the community feel and wanted to challenge the norm,” she says. Her experiences at women’s leadership workshops have been pivotal, showing her the progress made in what was once a male-dominated industry.

Empowering women to take on more roles in sports is crucial, Rachael believes. “We need to celebrate the great work females are doing in the sport industry and acknowledge their contributions”. The visible progress, showcased by the increasing number of females at AFL Barwon, highlights the strides being made towards gender equality in sports.

Sophie Allison’s entry into the sports industry was somewhat opportune, guided by the supportive environment at AFL Barwon. Her involvement in the Female Festival of Sport (FFOS) was a turning point, showcasing the power of women supporting women. The festival highlighted incredible stories from women within the region, providing them a platform to shine. "Being in a room full of people eager to hear from some incredible women, and from men who have worked to support women, was a really empowering experience." The festival highlighted the incredible contributions of women in sports, creating a platform for recognition and celebration.

Sophie’s story underscores the importance of advocacy and building a supportive network. "By ensuring we are advocating for one another in sport and continuing to build a supportive and encouraging environment for those around us, we can achieve anything," she asserts. Her journey underscores the importance of community and mentorship in empowering women and creating a culture where everyone can thrive. "By building one another up, we bring each and every one of us up."

The stories of the women at AFL Barwon are a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of inclusivity, support, and empowerment in sports. From breaking barriers and challenging norms to advocating for equal representation and celebrating achievements, these females are paving the way for future generations.

Their journeys inspire us to continue the conversation, support one another, and build a more inclusive and vibrant sports community.

AFL Barwon  Female Commissioners & Staff

Sophie Allison (AFL Barwon Head of Netball)

Michelle Gerdtz (AFL Barwon Chair)

Rachael Kirtley (AFL Barwon Netball Umpiring Coordinator)

Diana Murase (AFL Barwon Commissioner)

Lisa Patterson (AFL Barwon Group Manager of Operations)

Chloe Prout (AFL Barwon Netball Coordinator)

Paris Rowe (AFL Barwon Female Football & Junior Football Coordinator)

Camryn Sheehan (AFL Barwon Media & Communication Coordinator)

Sharon Skene (AFL Barwon Accounts & Finance Manager)

Nicola Wojcik (AFL Barwon Commissioner)