THE CARLTON Football Club is pleased to announce the re-signing of AFLW Senior Coach Daniel Harford for a further two years.
A much-loved figure at the Club, his ability to build strong connections and nurture relationships with players and staff on and off the field is a cornerstone of his coaching.
Harford’s strong leadership displayed across his four seasons at the helm has been crucial to the program being able to adapt to any challenge thrown its way.
Since taking charge at the end of 2018, Harford has taken the Blues to two finals campaigns, including a maiden Grand Final appearance in 2019, the same year he was named AFLCA AFLW Coach of the Year, and is now playing a key hand in ushering in a new wave of Navy Blue talent which sees the Club have the youngest list in the AFLW.
Carlton General Manager of Women’s Football Brett Munro says the decision to re-sign Harford ensures stability for the program, underpinned by an AFLW Senior Coach who drives a close connection within the group.
“First and foremost Daniel believes in the values of the Club; and he drives those values throughout our AFLW program, we know he is the right person to lead this team in our pursuit of success,” Munro said.
“We started to show some strong results in the back end of last season, winning three of our last four games, and we’ll be looking to build on that heading into a new season.
“Our playing list has certainly changed during his four years here and his ability to adapt along with that as a coach has been first class.
“Our list is the youngest in the competition and Daniel has shown that development is a big focus and will continue to be over the next few years.
“A connected program is a strong program and by signing Daniel until 2024 we can ensure a positive team environment that aligns with what the Club believes in.”
Harford is looking forward to another two years with the Game Changers and is already raring to go for AFLW Season 7.
“I want to continue to ensure the players have a strong support system behind them as we head into pre-season,” Harford said.
“We have a solid list, with a great group of players and the team environment at the Club is one of support and inclusivity.
“With four more teams coming into the competition we’ll be presented with a new set of challenges, but I can’t wait to get stuck in with the players, coaches and support staff and start preparing for the season ahead.
“I love this Club and will be doing everything possible to give us the best chance to share some success with our members and supporters.”