Coach Developer Network Relaunched Across Gippsland

AFL Gippsland is excited to re-launch the Coach Developer Network in 2026, strengthening the support available to coaches across all levels of community football.

The program is a key pillar in developing confident, capable and connected coaches, ensuring clubs across the region are equipped to deliver positive, engaging and high-quality football environments.

What is the Coach Developer Network?

The Coach Developer Network provides direct, practical support to coaches within their club environment — at training, on game day and across the season.

The program is built around:

• Mentoring and guidance for junior and senior coaches
• Observing and supporting training sessions
• Assisting with session planning and delivery
• Providing feedback on coaching behaviours and environments
• Supporting coaches to align with best practice principles and the “Gippsland Way”

Importantly, the program is free and accessible to all clubs, with support tailored to the specific needs of each coaching group.

This hands-on, in-club approach ensures coaching development is not just theoretical, but applied in real football settings where it matters most.

Meet the 2026 Coach Developer Team

The 2026 Coach Developer Network will be led by a group of experienced and passionate leaders within the Gippsland football landscape:

• Shane Antrobus – Bringing extensive experience in community coaching and a strong focus on building effective training environments.
• Bob McCallum – A respected figure across Gippsland football, with a long history of supporting coaches and strengthening club culture.
• Bianca Helmuth-Pask – A highly regarded coach developer with experience across community and female football pathways, and a key leader in coach education programs.

Together, the team will work closely with clubs to provide meaningful, practical support that enhances both coach capability and player experience.

How Clubs Can Access Support

Clubs and coaches can engage with the Coach Developer Network in a flexible and straightforward way.

Support can include:

• Booking a Coach Developer to attend a training session
• Organising a club visit or coaching workshop
• One-on-one or small group mentoring opportunities

To access the program, clubs can click on this link AFL Gippsland Coach Developers – Request Form – Fill out form or visit the Coach Developers page and submit an enquiry form to organise a tailored support plan.

Coach Developers will also be active across the region at key development opportunities, including coaching workshops and Gippsland Coaching Academy sessions throughout the season.

Supporting Coaches. Strengthening Clubs.

The re-launch of the Coach Developer Network reflects AFL Gippsland’s ongoing commitment to investing in coaches as the drivers of strong, sustainable clubs.

By building better coaches, we create better environments for players — improving retention, development and the overall experience of community football across Gippsland.