Abbey Butler and Holly Nelson will be steering the ship as the Kangaroos seek to build on a drought-breaking 2023 season, where the club won its first A-grade finals game before falling in the semis to Dookie United.
The club has opted for an intriguing hybrid model, with Butler taking the traditional sideline role, while Nelson intends to play on in addition to her coaching duties.
Having sat most of the 2023 season out while she had a baby Nelson believes the time off court has helped prepare her for the responsibility.
“I coached in 2022 and we didn’t go as far as we would like, but then we had Sheree Starling and I think she did a great job this year,” Nelson said.
“I just felt like we had unfinished business and the potential to go even further.
“Abbey was more keen early on than I was because it’s quite a big job, but I thought about it and I’d be silly not to take it on.”
Butler agreed about the upside of the squad, with an additional connection to the Kangaroos assisting in bringing her in.
“I saw the opportunity with growth and potential in the team,” Butler said.
“I’ve had kids myself and that has stopped me from going into this, but my husband plays football there and I just think it’s a great community club.”
The A-grade side undoubtedly showed promise, with a 12-4 regular season record and a maiden semi-final berth.
According to Butler and Nelson, managing with two sets of eyes will only enhance the team’s collective understanding as it seeks to go deeper in 2024.
“To (play and coach) at the same time is a hard gig, so having myself on the bench so that Holly can focus on her role within the team will be our point of difference,” Butler said.
Demonstrating the lock-step these co-coaches have already settled into, Nelson also acknowledged the difficulties of coaching from the midcourt.
“It’s hard to see everything and play your game and Abbey’s knowledge is amazing,” Nelson said.
“Her knowledge will be very beneficial and we’ll work really well together.”
In looking to the next campaign the duo has highlighted the importance of player retention and building on the core already assembled.
“I had a baby this year and came in late, but the extra year with one another and full pre-season will keep those bonds as a team together,” Nelson said.
“If we all stick together, we’re half way there.”
Meanwhile, Butler plans on taking an individual approach to put the squad’s goals in line.
“We’ve got the girls there and we’ve been speaking to a few more, so provided we keep them together, the want is there,” Butler said.
“My question to each player will be ‘what motivates you?’
“They’re hungrier than they’ve ever been.”
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