Claremont Tigers Set Sights on Unprecedented Third Straight WAFLW Flag
After securing back-to-back premierships in 2024 and 2025, the Claremont Tigers are now focused on achieving a historic third consecutive title in the WAFLW competition. Coach Jack Schwarze has openly challenged his team to complete what he calls "the trilogy," highlighting their ambition to cement their legacy as the league's premier powerhouse.
A Legacy of Dominance in Women's Football
The Tigers have established themselves as the undisputed leaders in the WAFLW, having won three of the past four premierships. This includes their recent triumphs in the last two seasons, showcasing their consistent excellence on the field. No team has managed to win three consecutive flags since the WAFLW was founded in 2019, with the last such achievement occurring at the top level of WA women's football between 2004 and 2006 by the Coastal Titans in the now-defunct West Australian Women's Football League.
Claremont will kick off their title defense this Saturday in a grand final rematch against Swan Districts at Revo Fitness Stadium. Last year's grand final was a nail-biter, with the Tigers clinching victory by the narrowest of margins, setting the stage for another intense showdown.
Coach Schwarze's Vision and Team Philosophy
In an exclusive interview, Schwarze emphasized that the team is fully embracing the goal of another premiership. "We're not hiding from it," he stated firmly. "Internally, we're discussing themes around the number three, and we're writing a book. This is the trilogy, so we're doing everything we can to achieve it."
He expressed confidence in the squad's capabilities, noting that Claremont still possesses the talent and system to remain the most competitive team in the competition. "We wear the label of being the hunted pretty proudly and are definitely not going to hide from it," Schwarze added, underscoring the team's pride in their success and readiness to face challenges head-on.
Squad Stability and Strategic Retention
For the upcoming season, Claremont has managed to retain the majority of their star-studded lineup, with defender Mackenzie Webb's move to East Fremantle being their most significant loss. Schwarze praised the club's ability to keep key players together, attributing this to a focus on environment and success rather than financial incentives.
"We're open and honest with the girls about the competitive balance, which is in place for a reason," he explained. "Our total player payment is the lowest, and I can't offer the same financial rewards, but because being paid is still new for them, they're not worried about that. They're focused on the environment, the success, and what they're getting out of it—external motivators aren't a concern."
This approach has fostered a strong team culture, with players motivated by collective achievement and personal growth, rather than monetary gains. As the Tigers prepare for their season opener, they carry the weight of expectation but also the drive to make history in the WAFLW arena.
