Following a history-making, double-gold season with the Perth Steel in 2023, Head Coaches Pauline Manser (Women) and Mark Petersen (Men) have been confirmed to lead the Perth Steel Program again in 2024.
This season was Manser’s third year with the Women’s Program, achieving a silver medal in 2022 and leading the team to gold in 2023. Her vast experience as a coach and player on an International stage has played a huge part in the Women’s Team success and growth over the past three years.
When asked if she was excited for the 2024 season after all the success year, Manser confirmed, “The team performed exceptionally well this past year but I believe there is still more that can be discovered with this group of girls. As a coach it gets more interesting the longer you work with a group and have built the trust necessary to push everyone to a new level, so I am absolutely excited to see what the team can achieve in 2024.”
Petersen had his debut season this year as the Men’s Head Coach after being a member of the Steel for many years as a player and one year as an Assistant Coach. His fresh perspective on the game and focus on building a strong team culture was crucial in leading the Men’s Team to their first ever Australian Volleyball Super League victory.
Petersen expressed how excited and grateful he was to be reappointed as the Head Coach in 2024. “I anticipate building upon this year’s success, extending beyond the court to positively impact both the sport of volleyball and our broader community engagement,” Petersen said.
Another coach appointment that has been confirmed is Laurel Wentworth, who has been appointed as the 2024 Women’s Assistant Coach once again. Unfortunately, 2023 Men’s Assistant Coach Nick Bew was unable to accept the role again this year.
VWA have opened expressions of interest for the following 2024 Perth Steel Coaching & Management positions:
- Perth Steel Men’s Assistant Coach (travelling)
- Perth Steel Men’s Assistant Coach (non-travelling)
- Perth Steel Women’s Assistant Coach (non-travelling)
- Perth Steel Team Manager
Expressions of interest for Junior U19 & U23 Indoor State Team Coaches have been opened as well, with trials for these representative teams to commence in February.
You can complete your expression of interest for all positions here – https://bit.ly/3SJtAfg
The deadline to apply is Sunday 7th January.
If you have any questions, please contact the VWA Pathways Manager, Jackie Tamburri at pathways@volleyballwa.com.au.