THE TIWI Bombers women's side will run out for the very first time on Friday night and take on the Division 2 Nightcliff Tigers at TIO Stadium as part of a series of exhibition games this year.

Prolific figure in Territory footy Colleen Gwynne has been named as the Tiwi Bombers women's head coach. After coaching notable NTFL teams and assistant coaching AFLW side Adelaide, Gwynne says she is extremely honoured to be Tiwi women's first coach.

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"I’ve been lucky to have coached a number of current Tiwi women at other clubs and it’s a part of the coaching I’ve always loved. There’s a real X-factor about Tiwi players and I can’t wait to be part of it," Gwynne said.

The game-plan for the series is to keep it simple and allow all players in the squad to have the chance to play.

"Some of these girls have played extensively in the NTFL before and some will be putting on boots for the first time. This first game will be a great experience and the series of games will give the players exposure to the level of competition they can expect if the Tiwi Football Club are successful in their bid to join the competition next year," Gwynne said.

The player interest has been phenomenal with over 50 women putting their hand up for selection. Players will be coming together from Pirlangimpi, Milikapiti, Wurrumiyanga, Pika and Darwin.

"This exhibition series is also about the girls and support staff getting the behind-the-scenes elements right. We have been working on how to set up trainings in these different locations and working on how to get all girls to come together to participate in the games," Gwynne said.  

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The announcement of a Tiwi women’s side is a great step for not only the players, supporters, and community – but for Territory footy as a whole.

"AFLNT are excited to give the women’s Tiwi team the opportunity to play against other Territory teams in these exhibition games. The rewards will be not only significant for the competition but for the Tiwi community in general," NT community football manager Leigh Elder said.

"We have seen the talent that Tiwi players can bring to the game, so we are really excited to see what the future holds."

Essendon VFLW player Courtney Ugle will be assisting Gwynne with coaching and support duties.

Tiwi Bombers v Nightcliff Div 2
Date: Friday 5 February
Time: 6.30pm
Venue: TIO Stadium