The Kiama Australian Football Club is proud to announce the appointment of Luke Vallence and Tony Grady as its new women’s senior co-coaches.
The duo will become the 10th and 11th senior coaches of the club’s women’s football program, arriving with a wealth of experience both on the field and in the coaches’ box.
Grady’s appointment follows two seasons as the club’s Men’s Reserves coach, whereas Vallence arrived at the club in 2025 and assisted with the women’s program before work duties took him away halfway through the season.
“We are incredibly excited to have Luke and Tony as the new senior co-coaches of our women’s program, as we look to further build and promote an enjoyable and inclusive environment for the women at our club,” club president Dirk Ovenden said.
“Luke brings an abundance of experience from his time playing in Western Australia and in the Navy and Defence Force representative teams. I think it’s safe to say that his knowledge and enthusiasm was greatly welcomed last season.
“Tony has proven in the last two seasons as the reserves coach that he is highly competitive and places a strong focus on connection, which we think will be an asset with the women’s playing group.
“As a football club, we’re delighted to be entering this next chapter with Luke and Tony at the helm.”
Vallence said he was full of excitement to be at the helm of an improving women’s squad.
“Kiama has a rich history, and I feel very humbled to be given this opportunity at the best club I’ve ever been apart of,” Vallence said.
“I can’t wait to get to work with Tony and the playing group, and start building towards 2026.”
After learning the ropes under Sam Hodges in the men’s program, Grady is ready to take charge of the senior women’s team.
“In 2025 we were able to recruit really well and add some returning players to the group, and the potential on the list is absolutely incredible ,” Grady said.
“Val and I firmly believe that we can compete for a flag in Premier Division with the gameplan, structure and environment that we want to build.”
The club is aiming to field two women’s teams in 2026, with the goal of also having a team compete in the women’s reserve grade competition.