AFL Barwon has announced the appointment of Sarah Naylor as its new Head of Football, bringing strong leadership experience and a deep understanding of the local football landscape to the role.<\/p>\n
Naylor steps into the position following a competitive recruitment process. She brings a diverse background spanning community sport and corporate industry, most recently serving as a Business Planning Analyst at Carbon Revolution. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce\/Sports Management from Curtin University.<\/p>\n
She is no stranger to local footy, having served as Chairperson and General Manager of Football at the Geelong West Giants for five years. During her tenure, the club experienced notable growth across both its operations and on-field programs. In early 2025, she was appointed to the AFL Barwon Commission, further deepening her connection to regional football.<\/p>\n
\u201cI am incredibly honoured to take on the role of Head of Football at AFL Barwon,\u201d Naylor said.<\/p>\n
\u201cCommunity football plays such a vital role in the fabric of our region. I\u2019ve seen firsthand the opportunities across our leagues, and I\u2019m excited to support the continued growth and success of football in the Barwon region.\u201d<\/p>\n
AFL Barwon Chair Michelle Gerdtz said the organisation was thrilled with the appointment.<\/p>\n
\u201cSarah\u2019s strategic capability, knowledge of the game, and passion for supporting clubs made her a standout candidate,\u201d Gerdtz said.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe\u2019s already made an impact as part of the Commission and now brings that insight into a full-time role.\u201d<\/p>\n
Naylor will formally resign from the AFL Barwon Commission to take up her new position, which commences Monday 15 December. She will work closely with clubs, leagues, staff and key stakeholders to oversee football development, competition management, participation pathways and long-term strategic planning.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AFL Barwon has announced the appointment of Sarah Naylor as its new Head of Football, bringing strong leadership experience and a deep understanding of the local football landscape to the role. Naylor steps into the position following a competitive recruitment process. She brings a diverse background spanning community sport and corporate industry, most recently serving […]<\/p>\n