Depth the key as Subiaco aims to go one better

A united playing group from 2021 and some handy additions to the squad could be the stepping stone towards Premiership glory in 2022 for the Subiaco Lions women’s side, according to head coach Michael Farmer.

Subiaco finished last season strongly, storming into the pointy end of the season with six wins from seven matches. The Lions then continued the momentum into the finals, with a win away from home against Claremont, before falling to the Swans in the Preliminary Final.

Ahead of the 2022 season, Farmer said the team’s ability to stay together was a positive sign.

“We have been able to retain a strong core of players from last year's squad which has been able to help drive consistent messaging from last year,” he said.

“We were really fortunate to have a few players from other clubs and the Perth Football League come across this season who have really bought into how we wanted to be viewed this year.

“The push for spots has become more competitive, but also really brought the group closer at the same time.”

The team has remained healthy throughout pre-season, a luxury that has put the team in a good position according to Farmer.

When asked about the squad for 2022, the coach mentioned several players who could go to another level this season.

“Madizen Wilkins has had a brilliant pre-season and has improved her running significantly so I believe she is set to have a big impact this year,” he said.

“Jayme Harken continues to push hard and a stint as a train-on player with West Coast will help take her game to another level,

“Abbey Dowrick is probably the most exciting player in the competition so we expect her to continue to improve and impact games for longer.”

Farmer said the influx of talent from outside of the club was also exciting, as the team eyes off its first Premiership since the club’s WAFLW affiliate team was established.

“Nyra Anderson has joined us from Swan Districts and Tahli Wilkins from West Perth, and to have their talent in our squad gives us a bit of excitement,” he said.

“Amy Mulholland has come to us from Wembley and Tess Lyons and Hanna Dethlefsen, both from University, are all pretty exciting prospects and I'm really looking forward to seeing them take the next step up.”

He said the group has a good mix of youth and experience, with midfielder Tarni Golisano set to captain the side for a second season as part of an eight-person leadership group.

Farmer outlined consistency as the main message for the group this season. The team started off last season with a win but followed it with four losses. However, the strong manner in which they finished the season shows the resilience of the group, and the ability to put in quality performances each week could be the difference.

“If we can bridge the gap between our best and our worst performances, I think we are going to play some really good footy this year,” he said.

“The players, coaches and support staff have put a lot of time into making sure we live up to the values the players have set for themselves.

“As a result, it's created a strong culture and environment for them to perform in.”

Subiaco’s WAFLW side will begin their campaign against Peel Thunder at Lane Group Stadium on Saturday 19 February.