Brad Ferrall steps down as Norwood SANFLW coach

After two years as Norwood’s SANFL Women’s Head Coach, Brad Ferrall has made the difficult decision to step down from the role.

Current SANFLW Assistant Coach and Development League Coach Alison Ferrall will take on the position as interim Coach while the club starts the search for a new Head Coach for season 2026.

Increased work commitments outside of his coaching duties has put additional pressure on Brad, whist also dealing with the passing of a close friend.

Pouring energy into both work and coaching has become a tough juggle, and Brad has made the courageous decision to stand aside from the Senior Coaching position.

“I have recently taken on a new role at work, which has played a part, while there’s also been some things in my personal life over the last couple of months. I’ve been battling with my mental health over this period,” Brad Ferrall said.

“It just got to a point where I needed to step back and get myself right, rather than trying to push through it and end up in a bad way.

“Norwood is the club I grew up supporting and loving, I still love the club and I’d love to continue in the role. It’s been an awesome experience, but it was a decision that had to be made.”

He will continue to carry out a role on game day as a line coach for the remainder of the season.

Brad took on the role ahead of the 2024 season, which resulted in a fourth place finish, an outstanding finals campaign and a Grand Final appearance against South Adelaide.

His side went down in the decider to the minor premier Panthers in a thriller at Coopers Stadium.

Season 2025 has got off to a tough start, but the team remains within striking distance of the finals under interim coach Ali Ferrall and a committed playing group.

Norwood Football Club General Manager of Football Richard Kelly thanked Brad for his commitment to the role and support of the playing group.

“Brad has been nothing short of impressive across his two seasons as Senior Coach at the Redlegs, we thank him for everything he has done and achieved in his role,” Kelly said.

“His commitment to the players has been unwavering, and he has worked tirelessly to get the best out of everyone in the program.

“We wish Brad all the best across the back end of the season, and into the future.”

Prior to taking on the Senior Coach role, Brad was an assistant within Norwood’s SANFLW program under former coach Brad Snell, following a long and successful stint as a Women’s coach at Morphettville Park Football Club.