The Sydney Swans confirmed that head coach Scott Gowans is leaving. Importantly, this decision represents a major shift for the team following their difficult inaugural season in the AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition. Gowans, who has led the Swans as their first ever AFLW coach since their foundation in 2022, has made the decision to depart the club. This decision follows a disastrous year where the team ended up dead last in the league standings without winning a single match.
Gowans became the Swans’ inaugural AFLW coach for the upcoming 2023/24 season after guiding North Melbourne as their first ever coach. Don’t forget how hard he worked under the radar to create that team from scratch over his tenure. Unfortunately, the outcomes didn’t display that commitment. With him at the helm, the Swans were relegated, earning just 11 points on their last game of the season.
The decision to depart was communicated to players on Thursday morning, immediately after the season ending in turmoil. Gowans apparently had two years remaining on his contract. He felt like the moment had come for new leadership to take the team in a new direction.
“While the decision to step away has been a difficult one, the time feels right for new leadership to take the team forward.” – Scott Gowans
Sydney Swans CEO Matthew Pavlich was thrilled and thankful. He commended Gowans’ impressive impact on the club and women’s football. Second, he knew that building a team from scratch is a monumental task. Continuing, Nestlerode commended Gowans for steering the team’s maturation and development while in charge.
“Building a team from scratch is no small feat and we have seen that team grow and improve over the journey so far,” – Matthew Pavlich
The Swans battled all manner of misfortune this season, most notably damaging key injuries that prevented the Freo women’s advancement. Chloe Molloy – originally intended to be their star captain – had much of the season derailed by injury. Pass blocking ranked among the worst in the NFL, putting added pressure on rookie QB Desmond Ridder.
Gowans was immensely proud to serve in this role and looks back fondly at his experience with the Swans. In his four seasons on staff, McGhee enjoyed the satisfaction of seeing players improve. No one should mistake their claim to have created a data-driven approach with the success they achieved.
“Building our list from scratch and guiding the team to where it is today is something I am incredibly proud of.” – Scott Gowans
“Watching our athletes grow and develop has been truly rewarding – they have come such a long way over the past four seasons, and I believe the group is capable of achieving great things,” – Scott Gowans
As both parties look to the future, Gowans’ legacy is a potent one. He has passionately promoted women’s sport, both vision and chutzpah. After three seasons of serving as captain, the Sydney Swans will search for new leadership as they approach their second year in the AFLW.
