Port Adelaide appoints former Lions defender Dan Merrett to lead its AFLW program

Port Adelaide has elevated assistant coach Dan Merrett to lead its AFLW program following a major reshuffle of the club’s football department structure.

Dan Merrett has been appointed as Port Adelaide’s new head of AFLW as part of the Power’s changes to its football department.

Shane Grimm had been the head of AFLW for the Power for just more than a year after he replaced Olympian Juliet Haslam - who had stepped down from the role in 2023 because of health reasons.

But Grimm will now move into a new role within the Power’s academies after the recent refresh of the club’s men’s football department structure after widespread change.

Merrett, who was an assistant coach for the Power’s AFLW side after a 200-game playing career at the Lions, will now step up and oversee the program.

Grimm will continue to be involved in AFLW player recruitment.

Port Adelaide footy boss Ben Rutten said Merrett’s appointment was an exciting moment for the club’s AFLW program and he possessed a comprehensive skillset to lead the program.

Port Adelaide's new head of AFLW Dan Merrett. Photo: Matt Sampson

“Dan has already made a significant impact on our AFLW program, and his understanding of the game, leadership qualities, and ability to connect with players make him an ideal fit to lead the program,” Rutten said.

“We have an exciting young list of talented players, and Dan’s experience as a player, coach and administrator will continue to underpin the growth of our program.

“I’d like to thank Shane Grimm for leading the program over the past two years, and we’re pleased he will remain at the club, continuing to play an important role in the development of our program from a recruitment perspective.

“Shane will work closely with Dan over the next few months to ensure a smooth transition ahead of 2026.”

Merrett played 200 games for Brisbane and transitioned into coaching after he finished his career in 2016.

He worked as an AFLW assistant coach at the Lions for four seasons, while also working in commercial sales.

He said he was excited about the new role at Alberton.

“I’ve loved being part of this group and I’m excited about what we can build together,” Merrett said.

“We have a talented, driven playing group and a strong program, and I’m looking forward to helping guide its continued growth.

“Women’s football refuelled my passion for the sport after retiring. I’m extremely passionate about the AFLW competition, developing talent and growing the game.”

Merrett will step into the role effective immediately, and the Power will appoint a new AFLW assistant coach in the coming months.

Originally published as Port Adelaide appoints former Lions defender Dan Merrett to lead its AFLW program