CARLTON Football Club and AFLW senior coach Damien Keeping have parted ways by mutual agreement. 

As part of the ongoing review of the AFLW program, Keeping, who assumed the role in June 2016 when the Club was granted an inaugural AFLW licence, acknowledged the time was right to step aside from coaching duties.

“I feel very privileged to have coached Carlton’s AFLW team since its inception. It’s been a real honour to coach this playing group and I’ll always be grateful to the Carlton Football Club for the opportunity,” Keeping said. 

Head of Football Andrew McKay acknowledged the contribution of Keeping throughout his tenure at the Blues.

“Damien has clearly played a significant role in the establishment of our AFLW program and its foundation, based on values and a strong culture and we are thankful for his clear investment and passion for the playing group and the program more broadly,” McKay said.

“Damien has decided the time is right to explore opportunities elsewhere and we wish him and his family well for their future endeavours.”

The Club will commence its recruitment for a replacement over the coming weeks.