The Western Bulldogs will soon commence their hunt for a new AFLW head coach after parting ways with Nathan Burke following a dire 2023 season.
Burke - a former St Kilda legend during his playing days - began his days at the Whitten Oval in 2019, leading the Daughters of the West in five campaigns across four seasons.
However, following a one-win, nine-loss season that saw the Dogs claim the dreaded wooden spoon, Burke was officially relieved of his duties on Wednesday despite still having a season to run on his contract.
โI thank the Western Bulldogs for allowing me to live my purpose of making a difference in other people's lives โ if I did that, then I walk away content,โ Burke said in a club statement.
โI also want to thank the people of the West for embracing me as part of your Club. I hope success is just around the corner for you.โ
In the wake of the 53-year-old's sacking, the Bulldogs join both West Coast and Collingwood in parting with their coaches, having severed ties with Michael Prior and Steve Symonds respectively.
Prior to the commencement of locating and announcing Burke's successor, Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains tipped his cap to the former midfielder, stressing that the club was seeking a different look for their women's department.
โNathan has played a significant role in the Club's journey within the AFLW and we're thankful for his strong contribution over the past five seasons,โ Bains said.
โHe became our first full-time coach after leading the team to finals at the end of 2022 and has developed strong relationships with his staff and players during his tenure.
โAfter careful consideration, the Club has decided to move in a different direction heading into next season, as we strive for sustained success in all aspects of our women's football program.
โWe thank Nathan for his time at the Bulldogs and wish he and his family all the best in their future endeavours.โ
Burke leaves Barkly Street as the owner of a 39.1 per cent winning record after steering the Dogs to 18 wins across his 46 games at the helm.
