Hawthorn has appointed Stephanie Binder as its Backline Coach for the 2024 AFLW season.

Binder brings a wealth of experience in a variety of programs, having most recently served as a Development Coach with Collingwood’s AFLW team.

Prior to that, she led North Melbourne’s VFLW side as Senior Coach for two seasons after previously playing in the league for the Southern Saints.

Binder has also played a key role in leading the next generation of AFLW stars, having served as an assistant coach with both the Vic Country and Dandenong Stingrays Under-19 sides.

She will now reunite with Stingrays/ Vic Country trio Mackenzie Eardley, Mikayla Williamson and Sophie Butterworth at the Hawks after forming a close bond with them at Under-19 level.

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Operations Max Bailey was delighted to have Binder join the club’s coaching lineup.

“We’re excited to welcome Steph to the Hawks this season,” Bailey said.

“Having gained vast coaching experience at the national, state and Under-19 levels, she will be a valuable addition to our new-look coaching group, led by Daniel Webster.

“Along with her impressive resume, she has some great philosophies around playing an exciting brand of football, which we see as a great fit for our backline full of potential.

“Not only that, but Steph is a highly enthusiastic and passionate person who we believe will inspire and motivate our group to get the best out of themselves.

“In appointing Steph, we also farewell Ben Cavarra, who has returned to his role as a teacher and Box Hill player for 2024.”

Hawthorn’s AFLW pre-season begins on Monday 3 June, with the season set to commence in the final week of August.