CARLTON Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Shannon McFerran as senior coach of its inaugural VFL Women’s side.

With a decorated playing career spanning more than a decade, as well as a strong background in teaching, McFerran is a welcome addition to the women’s football program.

The 10-time All Australian spent the past year as a development coach for Collingwood’s AFLW team, working closely alongside the Blues’ newly appointed AFL Women’s senior coach Daniel Harford.

Head of Football Andrew McKay said the Club was delighted to secure McFerran, a pioneer player and experienced coach in women’s football.

“Shannon has proven to be a wonderful player and coach since beginning her football career in 1997, so we’re thrilled to welcome her to the Blues,” McKay said.

“There’s no hiding her love and passion for the game, and coupled with her teaching background and leadership qualities, she was a standout candidate for the senior coaching role.

“With the imminent appointment of a General Manager of Women’s Football, this announcement brings us one step closer to finalising the new-look structure of our women’s program.”



New Carlton VFLW coach Shannon McFerran has had a decorated playing career. (Photo: AFL Media)

A Life Member of the Victorian Women’s Football League, McFerran said she was excited to join Carlton as its inaugural VFLW coach.

“I couldn’t be happier to take up this opportunity at the Blues and coach their first VFL Women’s team,” McFerran said.

“Working at the Pies this season in the AFLW system gave me valuable first-hand experience and I’d like to thank Collingwood for my time there.

“Having played the game for many years I feel I’ve got a strong knowledge of women’s footy and I’m passionate about developing and growing young female talent.

“I’m excited to be reunited with ‘Harf’ and work alongside him, as we look to further enhance the women’s football program at the Club.

“Our first game is this weekend against the Southern Saints, so I’ll no doubt hit the ground running.”

At the conclusion of the VFLW competition, McFerran will transition into the Club’s AFLW program, taking the role of senior assistant under the leadership of Daniel Harford.

McFerran will start in her role as VFLW coach immediately.