Gold Coast SUNS Head of Women’s Football, Fiona Sessarago will resign from her position with the football club at the conclusion of the 2025 AFLW season.

A stalwart of the program since inception, not only was Sessarago part of the bid to win a license in 2018, but she was also the first employee as part of the AFLW program and has overseen the club’s journey across seven seasons in the competition.

Sessarago informed the club of her decision yesterday, expressing her gratitude for the opportunities she had received as part of the football club.

“I have decided that this season will be my last with the AFLW program. After careful consideration and seven years of dedication to the growth of the women’s game at the Gold Coast SUNS, now feels like the right time to make a change,” Sessarago said.

“It has been an amazing journey, I have absolutely loved my time in this role. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many incredible people.

“I am proud of everything we have accomplished at the SUNS, we have built something really special from the ground up, and I am leaving with memories I will cherish forever.”

Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans thanked Sessarago for her countless contributions to the club’s women’s program.

“Throughout the past seven years, Fiona has been fundamental in the development, evolution and continued growth of our AFL Women’s program since inception, playing a vital role in the opportunities created for both players and staff representing the Gold Coast SUNS,” Evans said.

“The AFLW landscape has continued to evolve and go from strength to strength, with Fi’s leadership guiding the club and its people through a range of challenges and accomplishments.

“On behalf of our entire football club, I’d like to take this opportunity to publicly recognise and thank Fi for the time, effort, dedication and commitment she has shown to not only our AFLW program but the Gold Coast SUNS.”

A pioneer of women’s football in Queensland, Sessarago was the first full-time development officer in Australia when she joined the AFL Queensland team in 2001.

Her contribution to growing the game in QLD has been immense, not only has she represented Queensland herself as a player and coach, she has also held numerous roles in the participation of the game, as AFL National Auskick Manager and Gold Coast Regional Manager, before joining the SUNS.

Sessarago will continue in her role until the end of the season, committed to ensuring the club finishes the 2025 campaign in a strong manner.