Tiwi Bombers flying high following another coaching appointment

Andrew Mathieson Published July 29, 2023 at 10.00am (AWST)

Another piece of the rebuild for the Tiwi Bombers Football Club has been put in place.

The only Aboriginal-purpose club in the Northern Territory Football League has for a number of years struggled to have a presence.

But the Bombers administration are addressing key issues after the men's side won its first game in 987 days this year since last tasting victory in February 2020.

The Tiwi women returned to the NTFL Premier League last summer after not fielding a side in the previous two seasons.

The latest move has seen its new composite women's side with Tracy Village welcome in coach Willy Baird.

Tiwis club president Lindsay Whiting was "thrilled" with the joint appointment.

"After careful consideration of various exceptional candidates, Willy stood out as the perfect fit for our development and future plans," Whiting said in a statement.

"With an impressive playing career across numerous clubs in the NTFL and country footy, Willy brings a wealth of experience from diverse club programs and cultures.

"Transitioning to coaching, he may not boast an extensive coaching career, but he has consistently shown unwavering commitment and dedication."

The Tiwi Islands are located around 100 kilometres north of Darwin where a number of players from Tracy Village live.

The two-and-a-half hour ferry ride between teammates only escalates a tough job for Baird to unify the two groups living vastly different lifestyles.

"One of Willy's greatest attributes is his deep-rooted local knowledge and his strong relationships," Whiting said.

"His ability to bridge cultural and social barriers is invaluable to our club.

"Understanding the challenges faced, not only in Darwin but in remote communities, Willy possesses the tools needed to engage and motivate our players."

Tracey Village is having another shot in the Premier League after its winless 2020-21.

Whiting is backing in the coach of the first-time composite entity to improve further on the Bombers' sixth finish following seven wins from 16 games.

"Passionate about the game of football and the friendships it fosters, Willy's driven by the competitive nature of the sport," he said.

"His unwavering commitment to giving his best and determination to win on and off the field will be instrumental in the development of himself and our playing group."

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