AFL Canada is pleased to announce that Dean Hinchliffe has been appointed to the position of Northern Lights Head Coach.
Following an extensive selection process, Dean will be responsible for advancing the performance of Canada’s National Women’s Team through the current international cycle.
Dean brings a vast amount of coaching and playing experience to the position. Most recently, Dean served as Head Coach of the Burnaby Eagles Women’s Team. Prior to that, Dean coached junior, colts, and senior teams in Western Australia.
“We’re very excited to have Dean leading the Northern Lights National Women’s Team as we prepare for upcoming international tournaments,” said Greg Bridges, National Development Manager of AFL Canada. “Dean’s deep understanding of footy, as well as his focus on communication and culture, will be strong additions to an already highly successful program.”
As a player, Dean played more than 400 games in Perth and Melbourne, Australia, as well as two seasons with the Burnaby Eagles Men’s Team as a part of AFL British Columbia.
“The Northern Lights National Women’s Team has long set the standard for performance in international footy, ” said Dean. “I’m looking forward to working with our incredible team of athletes, coaches, and staff to build on this success and continue to develop high performance footy players in Canada.”
AFL Canada would like to thank outgoing Head Coach Tricia Rolfe for her dedication to the National Program. Since 2020, Tricia led the program to victory in the 2023 Parallel Cup and a third place finish at the 2024 Transatlantic Cup.
The Northern Lights are Canada’s National Women’s Team and operate as part of AFL Canada’s High Performance Program. The team has represented Canada at every International Cup, winning the 2014 tournament and finishing second in 2017.
The Northern Lights play an important role in the growth of Women’s footy at all levels by providing year-round development resources, high-level training opportunities, and international competition.
Dean’s appointment is effective immediately.
About AFL Canada
AFL Canada is the AFL-sanctioned National Governing Body committed to promoting, growing, and developing the sport of Australian Football in Canada. Since 1989, AFL Canada has supported clubs, leagues, and provincial associations through program development, resources, national and international tournaments, marketing, youth programs, and other strategic initiatives.
As the recognized AFL International Affiliate, AFL Canada is motivated to ensure the game can prosper and progress through all formats, levels, and competitions across the country.
