The Old Xaverians Women’s 2021 season ended last Saturday, but President Matthew Cosgrave has signalled that more resources will be added for next year’s campaign.

“With no football last year and interruptions to the short season this year, 2021 has been a frustrating year for our women. However, we are thrilled that our WOX have remained the close-knit unit of previous years, and that they did enough to remain in Premier section for next season,” Cosgrave said.

“Our twin aims as a club are to encourage participation and to ensure that all of our teams and each of our players has the greatest opportunity for success.

“With that in mind, we are delighted to announce that Scott Gowans will remain with our club and take on increased duties for 2022. In addition to continuing as senior coach, Scott will assume the role of Head of Women’s Football.

“That we have created that role underlines our strong commitment to the WOX. It is also a recognition that we have the perfect candidate for the position.

“Scott Gowans (left) came to our club a year ago with an impeccable football resume. His work with our women has been highly regarded by our players and more broadly by the club’s administration and support teams.

“Having worked at the highest levels of AFLW and VFLW, Scott understands the women’s football landscape better than most. His experience in and knowledge of the women’s game will assist in taking our WOX program to greater strengths in 2022 and beyond.

“Paul Newton, who served this season as WOX Reserves coach, and guided the team to the finals, will again take on the same role. We believe Paul is a very capable coach and we are sure his charges will be happy that he will continue in 2022.

“Our club is committed to building a successful women’s program that rivals the strength of our men’s teams. To this end, we are thrilled that Honan Insurance Group has agreed to partner with the WOX and help them press for greater success in the future,” Cosgrave said.

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