Pendlebury comes on board as an assistant coach alongside former Geelong AFL player Sam Simpson, with Elise Coventry also continuing in her role as an assistant.
The trio will work under new senior coach Mick Stinear, who was appointed in December and coached Melbourne to its maiden AFLW premiership in 2022.
For Pendlebury, it follows a golden stint at North Melbourne, where he spent the past two seasons as an assistant and midfield coach.
Across that period, the Kangaroos went undefeated and claimed back-to-back AFLW premierships in 2024 and 2025 — credentials that immediately bolster Geelong’s program.
Pendlebury is no stranger to success on the field either.
The ex-Euroa mentor added another premiership to his resume in September, helping GFL powerhouse St Mary’s claim the flag, while also boasting experience at VFL level.
Geelong AFLW general manager Dom Condo said the balance of experience across the panel would be a major asset moving forward.
“This group brings a really broad mix of experiences across elite premiership environments, player development and an understanding of our club,” Condo said.
“Ryan’s recent success at AFLW level, Sam’s connection to Geelong and experience across multiple competitions, and Elise’s ongoing contribution to our program gives us a well-rounded coaching group.
“Combine this with Mick’s leadership and it provides a strong platform for our AFLW program as we prepare for the 2026 season.”
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