Webster has served as an assistant coach for Brisbane’s AFLW team for a minimum of the last three seasons, taking charge of the midfield during their most recent premiership victory. He is set to take over from Bec Goddard, who led the Hawks during their initial two AFLW seasons. Additionally, Webster has been at the helm of QAFL men’s side Aspley for the past five seasons. Another contender in the final stages of the application process was Daniel Harford, former Carlton AFLW coach and ex-Hawthorn player.
Expressing his gratitude, Webster stated, “I am incredibly honored and humbled to be appointed as Hawthorn’s next AFLW senior coach. Hawthorn has always been a club I’ve admired, and I am privileged to be part of the brown and gold family. Trusted with the responsibility of upholding elite standards and fostering competitive behavior, I look forward to working with the immensely talented AFLW playing group and building a Hawthorn team that our members and fans can be proud of.”
Having previously collaborated with Hawthorn star recruits Emily Bates and Greta Bodey at the Lions, Webster is enthusiastic about the opportunity. The Hawks, having won three games in each of their first two seasons, are still in the developmental phase.
Hawks’ General Manager of Football Operations, Max Bailey, expressed his excitement about welcoming Daniel to the Hawthorn family. Bailey highlighted Webster’s extensive coaching experience, his role in overseeing a top-notch AFLW midfield, tactical knowledge, relationship-building skills with players, and effective communication as factors that stood out during the rigorous selection process. With over a decade of coaching experience, the Hawks are confident that Daniel is the right person to lead them into the future as they build on the foundations laid in their initial two years in the AFLW.
