The Western Bulldogs have parted ways with AFLW coach Nathan Burke, despite him having a year left on his contract, following the team’s disappointing season, which saw them finish last.
Last season, the Bulldogs finished seventh with a 7-3 record, but they struggled in 2023, securing only one win, which came against the lowly West Coast in round 9.
Throughout the season, Burke had to rely on train-on players multiple times due to a string of injuries that plagued the Bulldogs’ roster. He also expressed concerns about broader issues with fitness and professionalism among his players after early-season defeats to Melbourne and St Kilda.
Burke, a St Kilda legend who played 323 games for the AFL club and whose daughter Alice plays in the Saints’ AFLW team, stated after the round 10 loss to North Melbourne that he believed he had strong player support to continue as coach and felt personally driven to rebuild after the challenging season.
Burke is the third AFLW coach to leave this season, following West Coast’s dismissal of Michael Prior in round 9 and Collingwood’s decision to part ways with Steve Symonds after the team missed the finals for the first time in five seasons.
In a statement, Burke expressed gratitude to the Western Bulldogs, saying, “I thank the Western Bulldogs for allowing me to fulfill my purpose of making a difference in other people’s lives. If I achieved that, then I walk away content.”
He also expressed appreciation for the support he received, adding, “I want to thank the people of the west for welcoming me as part of your club. I hope success is just around the corner for you.”
However, Burke received a bit of good news later in the day when he won a modest $11.75 in the lottery. He humorously posted online, “Sacked in the morning…win Tatts in the arvo.”
Western Bulldogs chief executive Ameet Bains acknowledged Burke’s contributions, noting that he had played a “significant role” for the club over the past five seasons after taking over from inaugural coach Paul Groves.
“(Burke) became our first full-time coach after leading the team to the finals at the end of 2022, and he has built strong relationships with his staff and players during his tenure,” Bains said.
“After careful consideration, the club has decided to move in a different direction heading into next season, as we strive for sustained success in all aspects of our women’s football program. We thank Nathan for his time at the Bulldogs and wish him and his family all the best in their future endeavors.”
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