The resignation of Coach Nathan Burke after a tumultuous season, where he publicly criticized his players in three post-match press conferences, wasn’t entirely unexpected. With the Western Bulldogs managing to secure just one win, several players sought trades, which also seemed reasonable given the circumstances. The club finally appointed a general manager of women’s football after the position had been vacant for two years, a move that appeared logical and necessary. However, what raised eyebrows was the decision to appoint a new captain while the former captain, Ellie Blackburn, was still with the team and hadn’t voluntarily stepped down.
Ellie Blackburn, who has captained the Bulldogs for six seasons and led them to their 2018 championship, was replaced as captain in July following the introduction of a new leadership selection process for the upcoming 2024 season. Taking over the captaincy is Deanna Berry, a close friend of Blackburn’s. While Berry may not have the same high profile as Blackburn, she is highly respected by the team and is known for her determination. Blackburn herself is among those who hold Berry in high regard.
Blackburn emphasized the strong bond she shares with Berry, stating that their longstanding friendship and on-field experience together would be crucial in ensuring Berry’s success in her new role. Blackburn expressed her commitment to supporting Berry, both on and off the field, to help her thrive as the team’s leader. She emphasized the importance of Berry enjoying the role without being overwhelmed by it, highlighting the mutual support they can provide each other.
Berry, who joined the Bulldogs’ leadership group last season, has grown as a leader since she became part of the team in 2018. Her leadership development is evident, especially given her experience coaching a suburban men’s team during the AFLW off-seasons. Blackburn noted that leadership has been a frequent topic of conversation between them, particularly over the past couple of years. Berry’s hard work during the off-season to hone her leadership skills was evident, making her promotion to captain a well-deserved and exciting opportunity. Blackburn expressed her ongoing support for Berry in this new role.
In the new leadership structure, Blackburn will serve as vice-captain, with younger players Isabelle Pritchard, Isabella Grant, and Jess Fitzgerald joining the leadership group alongside veteran player Elle Bennetts. Blackburn welcomed the addition of these young players to the leadership team, recognizing their readiness to step into more prominent roles. She took pride in seeing these players, whom she had worked with closely, take on greater responsibilities.
For Blackburn, this transition marks a shift in her role within the team. She sees it as an opportunity to step back slightly, focusing more on mentoring and supporting the younger players while still contributing to the team’s success. The Bulldogs, now with a new captain, coach, players, list manager, and general manager of women’s football, are gearing up for the 2024 season. Their first test under this new structure will be against Greater Western Sydney at Manuka Oval during AFLW week one.
This leadership change, coupled with other significant shifts within the club, signals a new chapter for the Western Bulldogs. With Berry at the helm and the support of experienced players like Blackburn, the team is looking forward to a season filled with new challenges and opportunities for growth.
