Fitzroy-ACU Senior Women’s coach, Michael Harper, has informed the club that he won’t be in a position to continue as senior coach next season.

Michael, affectionately known as ‘Harps’ around the club, has been a key driver in the success which saw our Senior Women side’s make it all the way to the Premier B Grand Final in season 2022.

We might not have walked away with a premiership on the day, but Harps’ leadership, driving a strong culture on and off the field, was instrumental in getting the side there, and proving they are ready to take on the challenge in the Premier division when they take to the field in 2023 after earning promotion.

Harps shared with the club how difficult this decision was to make, expressing genuine love for his squad and the club. However the commitment to travel from his home in Alexandra multiple times a week, and balancing work and family is no longer sustainable.

The club understands Harps’ position to put family first and we know he’ll still be connected to the Roys and get down to games when he can.

We extend our thanks to Michael for instilling such a wonderful culture, pursuing excellence, and always putting the development of our women as players and people first.

We’re incredibly proud of all Harps and our Senior Women achieved in 2022.

We wish Michael all the best and look forward to seeing him back at the club when he can.

Thank you Harps!



The search for the positions of Senior Women’s and Reserves Women’s coach will commence shortly.