By Lauren Wood, Williamstown Media
After a 2024 campaign that saw the Seagulls claim their first-ever VFLW minor premiership, Cavanagh will again guide a synergistic coaching group into a new season.
The Seagulls are excited to welcome two new faces to the coaching group, with Jeremy Freeman joining as Assistant Coach (Midfield) and Andre Pocilujko stepping in as Forward Line Development Coach.
Freeman brings with him two years of VFLW experience as Carlton’s Midfield Coach and served as a VFL runner with Box Hill in 2024. He currently coaches and teaches at Whitefriars College and will bring a sharp tactical lens and fresh perspective to the midfield group.
Pocilujko is an emerging football coach and accredited Exercise Physiologist and brings a strong understanding of athlete development and performance. A former assistant coach with the Yarraville Seddon Eagles’ women’s program, he will play a key role in supporting our forwards as a Development Coach for the season.
Amidst the additions, continuity remains a key theme for the Seagulls’ coaching structure. Assistant coaches Justin Beach and Cheyne Webster will continue in their respective roles, with Beach stepping into a dual role as Head of Development and Forward Coach following the departure of former Head of Development Erin Meade.
The pairing of Development Coaches Ash Thorneycroft (midfield) and Rhys Dupas (backline) also continues into 2025, with Pocilujko rounding out the group as a new support for the forward line.
The 2025 VFLW coaching structure is as follows:
- Senior Coach – Liam Cavanagh
- Head of Development / Forward Coach – Justin Beach
- Midfield Coach – Jeremy Freeman
- Backline Coach – Cheyne Webster
- Forward Line Development – Andre Pocilujko
- Midfield Development – Ash Thorneycroft
- Backline Development – Rhys Dupas
GM – Football Operations Ash Collins expressed confidence in the group assembled for 2025.
“We’re delighted to announce our VFLW coaching structure for 2025, with Liam Cavanagh continuing to lead the program,” said Collins.
“Justin Beach’s role has expanded in 2025 as both an Assistant Coach and Head of Development. We’re fortunate to have someone with his wealth of football knowledge and rapport within the club to support the transition. He’s been a highly respected part of the VFLW coaching group for the past three seasons, and his ability to step up when required has shown the great connection he has with both our playing and coaching groups.”
“We’re confident in the experience and expertise across the entire coaching group. Each coach brings something different to the table, and together they form a cohesive team that will continue to drive our program forward under Liam’s leadership. This consistency is a real advantage for our players, and we’re looking forward to rounding out pre-season and hitting the ground running next weekend.”
Williamstown’s VFLW side will open their 2025 season on Easter Sunday against the Western Bulldogs, with the match scheduled for 11:05am at Mission Whitten Oval.
