WAFC Recruits Highly Respected Coach Trent CooperWednesday, December 7, 2022 - 8:41 AM

Former Fremantle Dockers AFLW coach Trent Cooper has accepted a new role with the West Australian Football Commission in a huge boost for the state’s emerging talent.

Cooper has been appointed the WAFC’s Coaching Specialist - Talent Pathways, a broad role which covers male and female development.

The 48-year-old will work closely with U18 State Head Coach Ben Dyer and the assistant coaches in the male State Academy.

Cooper will liaise with all WAFL clubs, including talent managers and coaches at colts level to assist in development and education within the male talent pathway.

In addition, he’ll join forces with Beau McDonald and the assistant coaches in the Female State Academy.

Cooper brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, having coached the Dockers to four finals series in five seasons at AFLW level.

He also previously played in the WAFL with Swan Districts and Peel Thunder.

Scott Baker, Executive Manager Football Operations at the West Australian Football Commission, is delighted Cooper has come on board.

“Trent is a great pre-season acquisition for the WAFC and we’re confident he can make a huge impact in the male and female Talent Pathway,” Baker said.

In other coaching changes at the WAFC, Beau McDonald will take on the newly created full-time role of State Talent Coach – Female Programs.

McDonald will work closely with WAFL clubs, including talent managers, WAFLW coaches and Rogers Cup coaches to assist in education and development of coaches within the talent pathway.

The 43-year-old will also focus on fast tracking female coaches within the coaching pathway.

Baker has also congratulated McDonald on his new part-time role as Ruck Coach at the Fremantle Dockers.

“Beau will be a great addition to Fremantle, and we’re excited that he’ll continue to play a significant role at the WAFC helping develop young talent,” Baker said.

Baker also confirmed the rest of the coaching set up for 2023.

“Ben Dyer will continue in his current role of coaching the Male State 18’s Academy, Michael Glassborow will coach the Male State 16’s Academy as well continuing his coaching commitments in Peel’s Senior Program.

Jenna Allomes will take charge of the Female State 16’s Academy, whilst continuing as senior assistant Coach for the Female State 18’s Academy.

Daren Bell will move into the newly created role of Community Coaching Manager, which will head up and oversee all levels of community coaching, including accreditation and education.

We’re confident this team will provide great results next year,” he said.