"Ash has been a part of the senior coaching group since 2021. Along with the rest of our coaching staff he has been instrumental in the development of our young group. Stability and consistency is our priority as we continue. Ash has a long history within the competition having played over 250 games of Premier Division football at East Keilor, West Coburg, Pascoe Vale, Reservoir & Glenroy Football Clubs. - He has an outstanding community football record.
Glenn Hatton has been appointed to the role of Senior Assistant Coach. Another member of the coaching group who has been with our developing list for multiple years, Glenn has followed our junior talent through junior levels and continues to assist their development now as they transition into the senior ranks. Glenn’s ability to analyse the opposition and his keen eye while watching video edits each week provide an invaluable input into the continued growth and development of the group.
Markus Welsh will join the senior coaching team as an Assistant/Forward Line Coach in 2023. Markus is a long time player at the club and has been a successful player at senior level for both Westmeadows and Airport West. - Playing as a key forward through his playing career he will offer some great insights and advice to our developing senior team in 2023.
Rex Hickman has joined the club from Baccus Marsh as a Playing Assistant Coach. Rex played football last year for Bacchus Marsh Football Club, before that he played up at the Mallee Eagles where he was a big part of their success in reaching a grand final in the Central Murray Football Netball League. Welcome again Rex, we look forward to your leadership both off and on the field.
Kane Honan will again lead our Senior Reserve's playing group which he has done for the last 4 years. Kane is an experienced senior coach and has been critical in the development of our list over his time in his current role. Kane is a dedicated and passionate member of the coaching group with a desire to continue his mentoring and teaching role as we continue to develop re excellent senior footballers and fine young members of the community. - Welcome back Kane, what a great club person you have been and an incredible asset to our club on and off the ground.
Leigh McNamara will be our Under 18.5 Men's Head Coach in 2023. Digger was our u18's coach in 2022 and has coached through our junior program for a number of years. He had a long and credentialed career as a player at premier division level winning premierships and top league awards during this time. He has also coached at senior level and brings a wealth of experience along with him. Assisting Digger in 2023 will be Darren Blyth and Colin Stenhouse who are both backing up from the 2022 season. Great to have this team back on board to continue our junior development program.
Darren Blyth will join our Under 18.5 Men's Program under Leigh, taking on the job of Assistant Coach to the boys. Darren played football at North Melbourne under Dennis Pagan, as well as playing at Coburg. He was a Senior Head Coach at Hurstbridge Football Club and has been an assistant at several other EDFL clubs. Darren brings a wealth of knowledge to the club and we are glad to have him on board in 2023.
Congratulations to all of our 2023 coaching appointments. - We look forward to the season ahead and wish them all the best in their premiership campaigns."
Grant Smith - Westmeadows Football Club President
