THE DEMON faithful are familiar with the Tyla Hanks that is both a star player and vice-captain for the club’s AFLW side.

But what isn’t as widely known is her role of coach for Narrm’s Academy teams.

Hanks’ early love of football led her to the path of coaching, which she now enjoys at the Dees, developing the next generation of young talent. 

“I think from a really young age I always had a footy in my hand and loved playing footy for what it was,” Hanks said.

“And I’ve been really lucky that Todd [Patterson] and the club have been able to give me an opportunity to do that.”

The club's Academy program was relaunched last year with a new structure, creating greater opportunities for young athletes.

The aim of the Academy is to encourage, develop and enhance participation outcomes for talented players, with an additional focus on creating more opportunities for multicultural and Indigenous participants. 

“I work closely with the club’s Academy kids,” Hanks said.

“It’s a mentoring role more than anything.

“I work with about 10 to 15 kids really closely, keeping track of how their footy is going and helping them with both footy and life - it’s a really enjoyable part of [the role].

“Outside of that elite group, we have Academy kids that are part of bigger squads that play games against each other.

“Weekly, I’m touching base and coaching, watching them play and helping them to keep developing.”

Going on two years at the helm, Hanks continues to relish in the role, grateful for the opportunity to be along for the ride with the young Demons. 

“I’m enjoying it,” Hanks said.

“Getting to know the kids and seeing them come back [because] they enjoy the program.

"That’s probably the biggest part of it, building those relationships and watching them develop as footballers across their journey.”