Club Update
Heath Forsyth – Updated March 19, 2025
Nomads President Adrian “Starry” Walsh, along with new coach Ash Arkit, will lead the club’s 2025 charge towards another AFL North West premiership.
President and games record holder Adrian “Starry” Walsh is confident 2025 will see the Nomads return to their winning ways after missing the 2024 season due to player shortages.
“There was a series of unfortunate circumstances where a key number of players either left the club or retired,” Walsh said.
“I said at the time it would not be the end of the Nomads, we are a strong and proud club.”
“We have a new coach for 2025 in Ashley Arkit, originally from Adelaide, who played SAFL for the Port Adelaide Magpies.”
A successful “come and try” day in February attracted a number of new players, with training set to begin ahead of the season start in early May.
Arkit moved to Armidale three years ago and said strong local ties and community connection were key to the club’s rebuild.
“We’ve had 10 to 12 new players come through and we’re really excited for the season,” he said.
The Nomads will again manage a changing player base as a university-linked club, but optimism is high heading into 2025.
Season Structure Highlights
- Season start: May 3 vs Tamworth Kangaroos
- Indigenous Round: Rounds 3–4
- Pride Round: Round 8 (July 5)
- University break byes: Rounds 5–6
- Catch-up weekend: August 2 (weather rescheduling buffer)
- Representative matches: June 28 (Men’s and Women’s teams)
Coaching Notes
Arkit confirmed he is open to stepping in as a player if required during the season.
“If need be, I could definitely put the boots on and do a couple of cameo roles.”
Women’s coach Leighton Smith will lead the women’s program, supported by pre-season skills sessions for new players.
“She definitely fits the mould we needed in terms of club leadership,” Arkit said.
Training Schedule
Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6 pm.