The Gosnells Football Club Women’s side is finals bound after completing an impressive turnaround in 2026, securing third position on the ladder and a double chance heading into the finals series.
After a challenging 2025 campaign in the C2 competition saw Gosnells finish second-last, the Women entered this season determined to climb back up the ladder.
With a refreshed playing group, renewed confidence and new coach Jessie McDonald at the helm, the improvement has been significant.
Jessie brought new life and energy to the women’s program, helping attract several key players to complement the existing Gosnells group.
Importantly, the side has continued to build throughout the year, developing greater consistency and belief as the season progressed.
While there have been ups and downs, the Women produced some of their best football when it mattered most.
A strong run through the second half of the season allowed Gosnells to hold onto third position and secure the valuable double chance in finals.
Among the season highlights was a dominant 121-point performance against Kenwick, while important victories over Willetton during the NAIDOC Round and Wanneroo late in the season demonstrated the team’s ability to perform in competitive contests.
The midfield has been a major strength, with Shawnee Pickett, Kyraley Drage, Martika Yappo, Shekira Pickett and Shakeeda Pickett all producing strong performances throughout the year. Their ability to win contested football, apply pressure and drive the Hawks forward has played an important role in the team’s improvement.
Danika Myles and Mia Reidy have shared the ruck responsibilities throughout the season, giving Gosnells a strong presence around the stoppages and providing opportunities for the midfield group.
Down back, Bindi Pickett and Tanesha Coyne have been formidable, regularly standing up against opposition attacks and providing stability to the defensive unit.
At the other end of the ground, co-captain Talia Coyne has been a consistent contributor forward, providing leadership, pressure and an avenue to goal.
Alongside fellow co-captain Shawnee Pickett, the pair have provided important leadership to a group that has continued to grow in confidence throughout the season.
Perhaps one of the most encouraging aspects of 2026 has been the resilience shown by the playing group.
The improvement from second-last to a top-three finish in the space of 12 months is a significant achievement and reflects the work put in by Jessie, her support staff and the entire playing group.
The home-and-away season is now behind them, but the opportunity ahead is even greater.
Gosnells will begin its finals campaign this Saturday when the Women take on Fremantle CBC in a Qualifying Final at Morris Buzzacott Reserve.
With a double chance secured and some strong football behind them, the Mighty Hawks will enter finals with confidence and an opportunity to see just how far their remarkable turnaround can take them.
Whatever happens from here, the 2026 season has already marked an important step forward for the Gosnells Women’s program, but the girls will be hoping their best football is still to come.
