Sydney have appointed Scott Gowans as their inaugural AFLW coach, less than two years after North Melbourne let him go.
Gowans led the Kangaroos to 11 wins from 14 matches across their first two seasons in 2019 and 2020 but surprisingly didn't have his contract renewed, as part of COVID-19 related cost-cutting.
He later joined Collingwood as an assistant under Steve Symonds and most recently worked as their midfield coach -- but will depart the Magpies immediately to become the Swans' senior coach and head of women's coaching development.
Sydney, Hawthorn, Essendon and Port Adelaide will become the final four AFL clubs to join the AFLW when they enter the competition next season.
"Scott has really impressed us with his achievements in women's football to date, as well as his passion for the game and for mentoring others," Swans AFLW boss Kate Mahony said.
"We're thrilled to have someone of Scott's calibre as our inaugural head coach and leading the development of future coaches in the women's game.
"This appointment marks a significant milestone for our club and enables us to get started on building our list ahead of Sydney's first AFLW season."
Gowans -- Carlton's AFLW assistant in 2017 -- previously had a long involvement in both women's and youth girls' football and stressed his commitment to bringing through female coaches.
"I'm honoured to be able to coach the club's first AFLW team," Gowans said.
"I've heard a lot about this club and how close-knit the family at the club is, and I want to be part of that, and hopefully build something that will lead us to success.
"Part of my role will be focused on developing coaches and I'm keen to ensure I'm setting that legacy straight away."
Collingwood head of football Jess Burger said Gowans would be "sorely missed" and confirmed Scott Selwood would step into the role of AFLW midfield coach, the same role he fulfils in their men's program.
