VFLW Mid-Season Review

04/07/2026

With the 2026 VFLW season coming to the halfway mark, we sat down with VFLW Head Coach Jack Frost to reflect on the season so far.

Seven rounds into the 2026 VFLW Season, our playing group are looking strong, showing resilience and growing as a group as we head into the second half of the season.

With three wins under our belt, we have been able to match it with some of the most competitive sides, with each line looking stronger and more connected every week. A series of injuries over recent weeks has provided the opportunity for some of our newer recruits to show us what they can do and make their mark.

We spoke with VFLW Head Coach Jack Frost to get his thoughts on the first half of the season. 

It’s a relatively young playing group this year with a large portion of our list coming up from the Talent League to VFLW level. As Head Coach, how have you developed an open and inviting environment? How have they responded to that?

"The strength of having a younger group is their willingness to learn and ability to keep an open mind. From my end, I’ve always aimed to create a safe space where anyone can ask questions and continue to learn. No one knows everything; that includes coaches, so I’ve tried to make it a two-way street whilst providing guidance and bringing my knowledge and experience. "

There have been some great wins so far this season as we sit just inside the top six. How do you go about building on those standout wins in the second half of the season?

"It's great to be in the top six, but we have also had some really close losses and poor performances. What we learn from both wins and losses is the most important part, and we also love gaining experience. Our last game against Box Hill was a very mature performance where we saw all of our learnings come together for the majority of the game, which I am really proud of our group for doing.

If we continue to learn and use our learnings from these games, we can take our season deep into the year, which always includes the mindset of playing finals. Our brand of footy is a strong one, and I have always believed that if we play our way, we will be successful."

How have you observed the character of the playing group this year with the interaction between players of varying experience - new players, experienced VFLW players and those with AFLW experience? 

"The leadership from the more experienced players has had to be up to a high level this year given the average age of the group. It’s always an interesting dynamic where all levels of experience need to find a balance of teaching and learning, but it’s all based on the back of building a strong connection and trusting each other. Trust is built as time goes on, but I have been very proud of our leaders and the way they interact with not only their teammates but everyone around the club as a whole."

Mid-season stats leaders

Leading disposals: Charlotte Taylor (107 disposals)

Taylor is a strong player with previous AFLW experience who has quickly become a reliable presence around the contest. Her ability to win first possession, apply pressure and use the ball effectively has provided the group with consistency in getting the ball into our forward half. 

Leading tackles: Sunday Hollingworth (63 tackles)

With her first VFLW season underway, Hollingsworth has immersed herself well in the team as one of the most exciting emerging talents. From elite-trampolining experience and impressing at VAFA level, she has embraced her athleticism and work rate to be an important player in the team. 

Leading hitouts: Ava Bibby (134 hitouts)

Bibby has proven to be a consistent and dependable player with her composure with the ball and willingness to compete at every contest. She uses her height to her advantage and supports her teammates.

Check out the full season stats via the VFL app. 

Written by Jess Holland - Sandringham FC Media