By Denise Sharon Cahill, Western Suburbs Weekly
MICHELLE Cowan knew she would face challenges when she became the first female WA Football League assistant coach in 2004, but she has had plenty of support from male colleagues to overcome the hurdles.
Picture: Andrew Ritchie www.communitypix.com.au d326541
After completing the accreditation requirements for coaching, Mrs Cowan took a job with West Perth where she stayed for two seasons before starting her sports focused business Specialised Training and Development, in Victoria Park.
“I’m glad the job was with West Perth because they were really positive about having me on board,” she said.
“The club was so welcoming and they really empowered me to be the best I could be in that role.”
The mother-of-one will share her story of success at an International Women’s Day Worldly Women event on March 8, where she will talk about how the then West Perth coach Darren Harris, provided her with encouragement and guidance during her two years with the club.
“When I was coaching, there were a lot of challenges but it was just about surrounding yourself with the right people and Darren was one of those people,” Mrs Cowan said.
The former Iona Presentation College student said her female high school teachers, particularly her physical education teacher, were role models.
Mrs Cowan said they were positive and encouraging, which helped in her endeavour to start her business, giving presentations and providing sports clinics to youngsters in WA.
West Coach Eagle Dean Cox leads football workshops for kids.