Softball Australia proudly announces the appointment of Peta Searle as the organisation's new High Performance Wellbeing and Engagement Manager. With a profound dedication to athlete welfare and extensive experience in sports leadership, Searle is poised to provide significant support to high performance softball athletes and coaches in Australia. 

Drawing from her diverse background in coaching, mentoring, and athlete development, Searle will direct initiatives aimed at supporting the wellbeing and professional development of high performance athletes and coaches, across both the men’s and women’s program. 

Peta Searle brings a wealth of expertise to her new position, having served in various leadership capacities across multiple sports. Most notably, her tenure as the inaugural head coach of St Kilda’s AFLW side as well as her time as the development coach for St Kilda’s AFL side, being the first full-time woman to coach in the AFL. Additionally, Searle won five consecutive premierships in the VWFL for the Darebin Falcons. This underscores her trailblazing spirit and commitment to advancing opportunities for athletes at all levels.  

“I am thrilled to step up to the plate with Softball Australia as the Wellbeing & Engagement Manager, eager to be part of a team dedicated to empowering our athletes and coaches to thrive personally to drive success both on and off field.” said Searle.

Softball Australia CEO, Sarah Loh, expressed enthusiasm about Searle's appointment. 

“Peta’s track record with working with high performance and elite female and male athletes at AFL and AFLW level is outstanding.” Said Loh.  

“Her experience in mentoring and the wellbeing of athletes is well regarded in the industry as she helps them navigate the challenges of sport both on and off the field. The support for our athletes is the highest priority and I’m excited about the program that will be rolled out.” 

As High Performance Wellbeing and Engagement Manager, Searle will work closely with Softball Australia's leadership team, athletes, coaches, and stakeholders to implement innovative programs and resources designed to optimise athlete performance and satisfaction.