Gibbs, who was co-coach with Kristie Lee Dickson in 2018, has taken on the full role in 2019

“Obviously last season was very satisfying – to take out the AFLSCW premiership was beyond anyone’s expectations,” Gibbs said.

Gibbs, who’s coaching resume includes stints in Victoria’s Diamond Valley League, the Navy and the Albatross Demons, is looking forward to the new challenge.

“I took on the job as I felt that the girls needed a full-time non-playing coach that could fully focus on their development – I've been a playing coach before and its an extremely tough job to do,” he said.

“Not only are you worrying about your players but you have to concentrate on your own game as well.

“On top of that, I think I will bring experience and a level head to the role, which will help the girls take that next step in their development.”

While Gibbs will be the first to admit that in 2018 the Tigers played most of their games on ‘pure emotion’, he is keen to put structures in place to help them defend their premiership.

“We are lucky most of our players are naturally very competitive and hate being beaten, so we built our game on being hard at the contest and being first to the ball,” he said.

“Next season, I'm really focused on developing our skill level – we need to do this to take our game to another level. 

“Once we improve our skills, we can then look at developing a game style that will include plenty of run and carry. 

“In women's football, it’s about capitalising on the possessions you get and using the ball to your advantage more than your opposition.”

As such, the squad aren’t resting on their laurels, with Gibbs’ squad of 28 players, which contains both his daughters Simone and Jaimi, starting their pre-season back in October.

“Our sessions have been great thus far and I know once we get a full compliment on the track at the start of next year, the intensity of the sessions will grow even further,” he said.

“It’s always special to have the opportunity to be involved in sport with your children (who he’s coached before in basketball) – as long as they know who's the boss, we'll be fine.”

With most of the premiership squad returning, Gibbs and his side have already established goals for 2019.

“To go back-to-back would be amazing – it’s hard enough to win one grand final, let alone two in a row,” he said.

“In saying that, the signs are definitely promising at this early stage.”