2019 Premiership Women's Coach Rick Watts returns in 2022.

Having stepped down at the end of the 2020 campaign off the back of the Panthers third consecutive trip to the Grand Final, Rick Watts will return to the helm for the 2022 SANFLW season.

Watts stepped away last year due to having started a family but is happy to pick up where he left off.

"I'm really excited to have the opportunity to return to South Adelaide" said Senior Women's Coach Rick Watts

"Having a year away from the top job has allowed me to recharge, while also spend some time much needed time with my new family.

"We have a good base to build from and I can't wait to get stuck into it."

While Watts will return to the top job in 2022, he maintained involvement with the program in 2021 undertaking a match day role as bench coach.

With proposals currently being considered for the SANFLW competition to undergo further expansion next year, South Adelaide CEO Neill Sharpe is happy that Watts will return to Flinders University Stadium.

"Ricks commitment to our women's program is unquestionable, and to welcome him back for the 2022 season is really pleasing."

"Rick has played an important role in the success of our women's program over the last four seasons and we're looking forward to what is in store for 2022."

Rick Watts

• Senior Head Coach South Adelaide Senior Women (Premiers 2019, Runners-up 2020)
• 2019 Advertiser SANFLW Team of the Year Coach
• Assistant Coach South Adelaide Senior Women (Premiers 2018)