by Ben Gilby (23/11/25)
Above: New Subiaco head coach Chris Coppin. Photo supplied by: Chris Coppin.
New Subiaco head coach Chris Coppin has spoken of the “real privilege” of leading the NPLW program at Rosalie Park, “a proud club that champions the women’s game in WA.”
Coppin has replaced Greg Farrell at the helm, a coach who laid the foundations of continuing improvement at the club across the NPLW WA era, with Subi looking to move into the conversation surrounding top-four places.
“I’m excited to be part of a club that’s aiming for a top-four finish and ready to challenge the teams above us.
“Subi have been right on the edge of the top four for a few seasons now. To push through, we need to raise the bar across the entire program – that means matching the professionalism, expectations, and support that clubs on the East Coast are already delivering.”
Coppin has a rich experience in the game, both locally and on the East Coast where she coached in the NPLW Victoria at both South Melbourne and Boorondara-Carey Eagles. She takes up the story of her footballing journey.
“I first kicked a ball back in primary school and kept playing all the way through high school. When I got to uni, I joined Floreat Athena and spent four years playing in the Premier League. I was also lucky enough to be selected for the Australian University team, which was a real highlight.
“As a PE teacher, I’ve worked in a few high schools as a specialist football teacher, including Morley SHS and Halls Head College.
“After my time at Floreat, I moved to Bassendean Caledonians (Callies), where I played across Divisions One to Three. That’s where my club coaching journey really began. I spent around 15 years there as both a player and a coach, and later coached at Ellenbrook United as well.
“In 2024, I was incredibly honoured to receive the Football West Female Coach of the Year award, followed by the Australian Female Football Coach of the Year. Those achievements opened some exciting doors and led me to Melbourne, where I took on an Assistant Coach role with South Melbourne’s NPLW side and also coached with the Boorondara-Carey Eagles in the Victorian NPLW.”
Subi’s new head coach has achieved a lot in the game so far, but she believes the best is yet to come at Rosalie Park.
“As a player, my proudest moments would have to be my first Premier League game and being selected for the Australian University team. From a coaching point of view, being recognised as Female Coach of the Year and stepping into an Assistant Coach role in the Victorian NPLW have been real highlights.
“Now, being given the opportunity to lead Subiaco is the icing on the cake. But honestly, what means the most is the friendships I’ve made along the way and being able to help female players grow and chase their football dreams.”
In terms of what Subiaco’s supporters can expect from their NPLW WA team next season, Coppin outlines what she wants from both herself and her team.
“I think good coaches are adaptable, so really knowing my players is key to the style of football we play. My philosophy centres on being a possession-based team that can identify and exploit the opposition’s weaknesses while making the most of our own strengths.
“Whenever a new coach comes in, there’s always a bit of movement. My approach is to show players what Subiaco has to offer – our program, our support staff, and the professional standards we’re putting in place. I want players to see that this is a club where they can grow and compete at a high level.”
After coming back to the women’s game in Western Australia after a spell in Victoria, Coppin has clear views about the standards and how to continually drive progress.
“The NPLW in WA is definitely improving, but there are still a few hurdles. We need to find better ways to keep our quality players here in WA and attract A-League clubs to scout our talent. Financially, WA still lags behind other states, which makes retention tough.
“Right now, there’s a clear gap between the top and bottom four teams, whereas on the East Coast, the competition is more evenly balanced. A stronger, more competitive league across all eight WA teams would be a huge benefit for everyone involved.
“Increased financial support from governing bodies and the government would make a massive difference. That extra backing could go toward better pay for players, coaches, and support staff, helping attract and retain top talent.
“We also need more visibility. Finally, relaxing some of the loyalty and home-grown player restrictions could help smaller clubs stay competitive, especially given WA’s smaller player pool.”
Whilst it’s around four months until the new NPLW WA season, Coppin is already clear what she wants to see from Subi in 2026.
“A great season for us would mean seeing players develop, hit their goals, and play with confidence and belief. As a team and as a club, success would be finishing in the top four – and doing it in a way that shows we’re building something sustainable for the long term.”
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