Self proclaimed “AFL mad” O’Brien is keen to lead the team into victory and quickly took up the offer to coach the team.

“At first I was a little shocked by the suggestion of being the coach,” O’Brien said.

“I’m already a basketball coach so it’s nothing new and I grew up in Albury so AFL is in my bones, I think I will do well with this team.” 

The mixed junior teams have already played their first game at Batemans Bay early this month and lost their coach due to unforeseen circumstances. 

AFL regional director John Dyball believes O’Brien will make the perfect coach for the age group. 

“We were looking for a coach and I thought of Kelli,” Mr Dyball said. 

“My sister coached a junior team in Melbourne for years and the kids loved it.” 

John is overjoyed to have a female coach on the south coast and said the sport is great for both boys and girls. 

“Our attitude is if we build it, they will come,” Mr Dyball said. 

“If we give the kids a great coach and great club they will come.” 

“For girls in particular it’s a great sport, at this age they play in mixed teams and the girls actually go hard.” 

O’Brien is one of two female coaches in the junior AFL competition who started this season. 

She hoping with the announcement of her as coach will attract some more female players to the sport. 

“When I was growing up we never had a competition to play in like these girls do,” she said. 

“AFL is a great sport, it’s very quick and there are few injuries. 

“The Dockers are a great club and very family friendly.” 

If you are keen on joining the under 14s team or learning more about Ulladulla Dockers call Kelli O’Brien 0438 415 599.