Carlton parts ways with AFLW coach Damien Keeping

CARLTON is the first Victorian AFLW club to part ways with its foundation coach after Damien Keeping moved on following a second underwhelming season.

Carlton coach Damien Keeping.

CARLTON has parted with inaugural AFLW coach Damien Keeping after a second underwhelming season.

The Blues finished bottom this season, losing its last five games, after a bright start and aggressive recruiting.

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It’s campaign came unstuck when captain and best player Bri Davey suffered a season-ending knee injury.

Keeping suffered ill health during the season and missed two games as he was treated in hospital.

Carlton’s inaugural AFLW coach Damien Keeping.

He is the first of the Victorian foundation AFLW coaches to move on.

Carlton said as part of its ongoing review of the women’s program Keeping “ acknowledged the time was right to step aside from coaching duties.”

“Damien has clearly played a significant role in the establishment of our AFLW program and its foundation, based on values and a strong culture and we are thankful for his clear investment and passion for the playing group and the program more broadly,” Carlton football boss Andrew McKay said.

“Damien has decided the time is right to explore opportunities elsewhere and we wish him and his family well for their future.”