The Geelong Cats continue to strengthen their women’s football program with the appointment of Simone Bellears as Women’s Football Strategy and Pathways Manager. Simone moves into the role after spending the past two years as the Cats Academy Pathway manager.

The role is responsible for leading and cohesively integrating Women’s Football Programs in line with club values across the organisation. This includes leading the execution of the AFLW preparation strategy across the club, with the Cats set to enter the AFLW in 2019.

“The expansion of our women’s programs is something that all areas of our club are excited about and committed to making a success,” Bellears said.

“To be asked to lead this process and to bring all areas of our club together to ensure the success of the program and the growth of the women’s game is a great opportunity. I am looking forward to working across the club and with our key external stakeholders to ensure that our women’s programs have every success. We have already started working toward the entry of our AFLW team and have a strong on-going relationship with AFL Barwon that will help us grow the game.”

Geelong’s General Manager of Football Simon Lloyd believes that Bellears is the ideal person to lead women’s football for the Cats.

“Simone has demonstrated in her seven years at the club that she has a diverse set of skills and is a strategic thinker,” Lloyd said.

“Simone has always had the ability to work across all departments and has strong ties within the wider Geelong community. She has great support inside our club and a passion for women’s football. 

While the role will report directly to the General Manager of Football, Simone will work with the club’s executive leadership team to ensure that all areas of the organisation are aligned and working to meet key objectives and milestones in preparation for the inaugural AFLW season.

A key aspect of the role will be to develop opportunities and pathways to support the involvement and employment of women as leaders, coaches and administrators within the football program.

Simone will continue to manage the club’s NGA program, aligning the community and football objectives to achieve growth in participation and talent in the Cats’ NGA zones.