Arnhem Crows coach Malcolm Hales recognised named community coach of the year
A Top End coach who’s tireless efforts have helped women and girls in a remote community succeed at their footy dream has been recognised on the national stage.
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A Territory coach known for his tireless efforts to promote and develop pathways for Indigenous women and girls in footy has been recognised with a top national award.
Arnhem Crows coach Malcolm Hales won the 2024 BHP Community Coach of the Year announced at the annual W Awards in Melbourne earlier this week.
The community coach award acknowledges individuals making exceptional contributions to advance grassroots footy for women and girls.
The school principal in the remote Indigenous community of Barunga has worked tirelessly to promote and develop pathways for women and girls in footy.
Under his guidance the Arnhem Crows became the first Indigenous team to compete in a senior women’s competition and have won three premierships in the past five years.
He was the driving force behind the club seeking sponsorships and grants to ensure it was financially viable while taking on every role possible to ensure success.
Hales is the literal driving force too battling the barrier of distance by taking players and schoolchildren from Barunga to Darwin and Katherine so they can participate in matches and clinics.
He has provided these young players with invaluable experiences outside their community, helping them develop as athletes, leaders, and positive role models.
Malcolm has also prioritised player safety and well-being, advocating for improved facilities, including gender-specific changing rooms.
He addresses the unique cultural needs of his players, ensuring training and games occur under safe conditions, and promoting mental and physical health.
His work not only strengthens the Arnhem Crows women’s team but also contributes to a long-term vision of empowered, and healthier communities in Barunga and surrounding areas.
AFL executive general manager of game development Rob Auld said Hales was a shining example of someone who has given a huge amount back to his club and community.
“In 2024 there are 28,500 registered coaches in Australia which is five per cent up on last year and pleasingly, we’ve also seen a 15 per cent increase in women and girls coaching numbers.
“There is no doubt that programs such as those supported by BHP have played a big part in driving women and girls football forward.
“Congratulations to Malcolm, it’s a wonderful achievement and deserved recognition for someone who has done so much for women and girls footy in the NT.”
BHP President Australia Geraldine Slattery congratulated Malcolm Hales on being awarded the 2024 BHP Community Coach of the Year.
“Malcolm has been a tireless advocate and passionate leader in his pursuit to develop and promote women in football in the Top End,” she said.
“Malcolm isn’t just an inspiring coach he is also a wonderful club man and gives-back in so many ways, both around the club and in the community.
“Malcolm epitomises what BHP is aiming to achieve and that is to empower our younger leaders and build greater female participation.”
In 2022, the AFL committed $5 million over three years in new investment to fund phase one of the Women and Girls Action Plan to drive more opportunities for women and girls in footy.
The plan is a key part of the AFL’s commitment to reach our aim set out in the Women’s Football Vision of equal participation and representation across all levels of community football by 2030.
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