GSFLW 2025: New North Albany coach believes strong training efforts can result in more wins in new campaign

Newly appointed North Albany coach Luke Kimber is eager for the start of the 2025 Great Southern Football League Women’s season with the Kangas making a concerted effort to improve on a winless last season. Kimber said the team, specifically the young girls, had put in “loads of work” into preseason training, and that he is keen to see that effort pay off on game day in the new campaign. “We would like to win a game — we didn’t win one last year on the field results-wise, but also each player got a little bit better,” he said. “I’m just looking forward to the season starting — our girls made an effort over the off-season. “The first training was in May last year once or twice a month, then twice a week since the start of October. “Hopefully all their efforts will be paying off.” Kimber said the team will experience a changeover with Anita Onions, Bridget Moncrieff, and Shalea Kiddle leaving while Mabel Markey and Pippa Wilson will only play a handful of games before heading to Claremont. The Kangas will be boosted by the return of star Laura Archer, who will strengthen their finals aspirations. Jasmin Kennedy, Emma Walker, Ava Vidinou, and Michala Sandy all from Albany are new inclusions and Latisha Jaynie from Royals has also joined the Kangas this season. Kimber said key players to keep an eye on this year include Charlotte Clayton, Kennedy and Archer. “Charlotte Clayton is one of our young girls who’s come on from last year and is a big influence on the team this year,” he said. “A lot of midfielders are going to be important like Jasmine Kennedy and Pippa Wilson while we have her, and Laura Archer is pointed to be a vital player.” Returning captain Kirstie Cooper will lead the Kangas through the 2025 season. The Kangas will face off against Denmark-Walpole at Keep The Sheep Stadium on Saturday in round one before their first home game in round two against Royals.