Could your local footy coach be Australia’s best? Nominations now open!

The AFL has announced nominations are open for the 2025 BHP Community Coach of the Year award, recognising dedicated individuals who are helping grow women and girls’ football at the grassroots level.

Now in its fifth year, the award opens fittingly during Women’s Coaching Month, which is also backed by BHP. It highlights coaches making exceptional contributions to advancing community footy for women and girls.

AFL Executive General Manager of Game Development Rob Auld said BHP’s ongoing support has driven significant growth.

“BHP’s continued support for the development and progression of women and girls’ football is evidenced by the nearly 200 per cent increase in participation since the AFLW first launched,” Mr Auld said.

“Initiatives like the BHP Community Coach of the Year award provide recognition for those driving women and girls football at community clubs across the country.”

The AFLW is celebrating its 10th season this year, with female participation jumping from 42,000 in 2017 to more than 125,000. More than 2,500 new women’s and girls’ teams have formed since 2016.

BHP President Australia Geraldine Slattery said community coaches were the heart of local footy.

“Community coaches shape futures, on and off the field,” Ms Slattery said.

“At BHP, we’re proud to honour those who lead with heart, show up rain, hail or shine, and make sport a place where everyone belongs.”

All accredited coaches at community Australian football clubs are eligible. Nominations close on Monday 15 September, with the winner to be announced at the 2025 W Awards in November. Submit a nomination here.

The program is part of a broader partnership between the AFL and BHP to boost gender diversity in sport and business. The AFL aims to have women and girls make up 40 per cent of all accredited coaches by 2030 as outlined in its Women’s Football Vision.

Previous winners include Malcolm Hales (NT), Kellie Nolan (NSW) and Natalie Pribil (Vic).