Ocean Grove has reappointed co-coaches Dave Farrell and Nick Bourke for 2026 as the rebuilding club looks to make its long awaited climb up the ladder.
Nonplaying coach Farrell and playing coach Bourke have been at the Grubbers for two years and although the senior team has won only seven games in that time, the club has debuted many youngsters and remains a predominantly young list.
“The cycle of review and planning doesn’t stop for us, even in-season we are always looking for ways to improve our program, what we can do immediately and what can be done in the off season,” Farrell said.
“I’m really looking forward to the next couple of weeks and super excited about reloading for 2026.”
The Grubbers have also reappointed Mel Holmes as A Grade netball coach for next season.
Holmes took over last year after Ocean Grove won a landmark 2023 A Grade premiership, defeating the unbeaten Geelong Amateur in the grand final.
Holmes replicated that last year with a win against the unbeaten Ammos in the decider.
This season the roles have been reversed. Ocean Grove is now the hunted rather than the hunter, sitting unbeaten and facing a blockbuster clash against Ammos this Saturday to decide top spot on the ladder.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be re-appointed as Ocean Grove’s A Grade netball coach for 2026,” Holmes said.
“It was an easy decision for me. The club has been incredibly supportive, and I feel really lucky to be part of such an amazing community.
“I’m so proud of what this group and club has achieved and I’m excited to keep building on that success.
“Coaching this team is a real privilege, and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together in 2026.”
