Port Adelaide has locked in its AFLW coaching structure for the 2025 season, welcoming Sam Venning to the program as a development coach.
Venning brings a strong mix of playing and coaching experience, having played 117 SANFL games and spent the past 13 years developing talent at Henley High School’s football academy, working across both the boys’ and girls’ programs.
After a great season as a development coach with Port Adelaide in 2024, Kelly Barltrop has earned an opportunity as Senior Coach of North Adelaide’s SANFLW side, and Troy Wilkey will remain part of the coaching group, continuing as game day runner for the third consecutive year.
Assistant coaches Dan Merrett, Sam Virgo and Braedon Talbot will all return in 2025, with some changes to their line responsibilities.
Merrett will lead the backline, Virgo will take charge of the midfield, and Talbot will continue to coach the forwards.
Port Adelaide Head of AFLW Shane Grimm said the club is pleased with the balance of continuity and fresh perspective within the coaching group.
“We’re really happy that Dan, Sam and Braedon are continuing with the program in 2025,” Grimm said.
“They each bring great experience and are strong cultural fits for the club.
“We’re also excited to welcome Sam Venning, who’s done terrific work in football at a grassroots level and now gets the opportunity to step into AFLW coaching.
“Troy has been a fantastic part of the team, and we’re pleased he’s staying involved as a runner.
“And finally, we congratulate Kelly on her Senior Coach appointment at North Adelaide and thank her for her contribution to our group.”
Port Adelaide 2025 AFLW coaching panel
Lauren Arnell – senior coach
Sam Virgo – assistant coach
Daniel Merrett – assistant coach
Braedon Talbot – assistant coach
Sam Venning – development coach
Tryo Wilkey – game day runner
