In honour of Women’s History Month, we’re shining a spotlight on individuals who have been instrumental in championing women’s sports at St Mary’s. Today, we’re highlighting the current Senior Women’s Premiership winning coach Troy Bickerton!
Troy’s passion for supporting girls and women’s sport began when his daughter Madi’s basketball team needed a coach. Not wanting his daughter or any of the other girls to miss out, he stepped up to the challenge and went on to coach for an impressive six years. Fast forward to today and he has now coached his daughter to a football Grand Final win!
Drawing from his own experiences as a footy player, Troy knew the tremendous benefits that come from being part of a football club. Motivated by wanting his wife and daughter to enjoy the same benefits, it didn’t take much for him to wholeheartedly get behind the women’s program with his wife Jess, a decision which has been incredibly rewarding.
“Witnessing my wife and daughter step outside of their comfort zones to play their first games of footy was a source of great pride for me. I love that playing footy has become something my whole family can share.”
Of course, one of the best rewards came in the form of winning the 2023 Grand Final. A massive achievement, especially considering the uncertainties surrounding the continuation of women’s footy when Troy and Jess took over after a one-year hiatus.
The fact that they not only revitalised the program but also clinched the premiership within a few short years is truly remarkable. It wasn’t just the win, but what the win represented for Troy. It symbolised the culmination of years of hard work by Troy and his own family, including son and Assistant Coach Hayden, his wife Jess, and many more in the St Mary’s community.
While celebrating the historic win, Troy expressed immense pride at witnessing how much the players had developed on and off the field, forming friendships that wouldn’t have existed without the women’s program.
“I’m glad that women have found a welcoming and inclusive community at St Mary’s, especially my own wife and daughter. Being even a small part of women experiencing the unique sense of belonging that a football club can offer, something traditionally only open to men, brings me great satisfaction.”
Looking to break down more barriers in the future, Troy envisions St Mary’s and other clubs having a Senior and Reserves Women’s sides, played in prime-time slots just like the men. He also advocates for the end of grading games within the women’s competition, believing in the strength of an elevation/relegation system to foster competition and aid player retention.
Nevertheless, support for women’s football has continued to grow. Troy has found it heartening to even see individuals who were once hesitant about the women’s program now being enthusiastic supporters.
“Seeing the Grand Final quarter time huddles filled with as many, if not more, supporters than the men’s finals teams, were surreal. It was a perfect representation of how our community is rallying behind women’s football.”
Troy strongly encourages other clubs to embrace women’s footy and encourages men to take a chance on getting involved as well. His number one piece of advice is to ensure that all teams are treated equally, underscoring the role of an inclusive and supportive culture in the whole Club’s success. He encourages simple yet impactful actions like shared Thursday night dinners and occasional joint training sessions.
“Everyone, regardless of skill level or gender, has something valuable to bring to the table. Embracing this diversity is what creates a stronger sense of community that drives success and growth within the Club,” Troy shared.
Troy’s impact on women’s football at St Mary’s is nothing short of amazing. His commitment and vision have created a competitive team on the field and a close-knit community off it. Troy is excited about what the future holds for women’s footy, particularly for his team as they embark on the journey into Division 1 this year.
SMFNC 