Michelle Cowan has been a pioneer for women’s football, from hailing as Fremantle’s inaugural AFLW coach, to headlining the Operations and Player Wellbeing programs at West Coast.
She’s also a bench coach on weekends, a department head on weekdays and a twilight golfing star, but also a ‘mother figure’ at all times.
Cowan is one of the constant sources of inspiration around the club, and upholds the ultimate ‘women supporting women’ attitude.
While this makes her an amazing role model for a young group of AFLW girls, it also makes her an amazing role model for International Women’s Day.
“The girls inspire me daily,” Cowan said.
“I’ve got so much admiration for this playing group, the way they apply themselves, balance their personal life, families, with working and performing AFLW at the highest level.
“The group’s connection is special and it just keeps building.
“I love that they champion each other and want to see success for everyone, while also doing it with great passion and spirit.
“From a club point of view, we wrap our arms around our players and have great support both on and off the field - I know when they experience the support and see the amount of support that inspires them.
“I’m so honored to be part of this game and this football club. We all do our small bit to contribute and leave the game or the jumper in a better place.”
But while Cowan is one of the main sources of inspiration around the club – it doesn’t mean there aren’t a dozen others which have inspired her.
Cowan is proud to stand with such an important group of women, and International Women’s Day only further recognises this.
“My children also inspire me so much, Albie (11) and Milly (9) - actually they are my biggest inspiration," she said.
“The growth of AFL for girls has been incredible, even since 2017 and the launch of AFLW - it’s the fastest growing sport in Australia and I know why after just coaching my daughters under-10’s team last season.
“They love the freedom to run, they love the physicality of the game and they love the friendships formed.
“It’s a great environment and importantly always fun.
“I’m proud that any little boy or little girl can now not only dream about being a West Coast Eagle but this dream can be real.
“For everyone.”