WPFC FINALISES 2026 COLTS COACHING DEPARTMENT

The West Perth Football Club is pleased to announce its finalised Colts Coaching Department for the 2026 season — a supremely experienced and strategically aligned group that will lead the next wave of emerging Falcons talent.

Heading into his third year at the helm, Steve Chapman returns as Colts Head Coach, bringing continuity, strong cultural leadership, and a proven ability to develop young footballers for senior WAFL opportunities.

Supporting him is a deeply credentialed team:

· Glen Bewick – Senior Assistant Coach & Talent Strategy

· Brendan Long – Forwards Coach

· Geoff Abbott – Midfield Coach

· Stu Page – Backs Coach

· Nick Ettwell, Derek Jenkins & Josh Groves – Development Coaches

· Brett Heady – Skill Acquisition Coach

· Chris Keunen – Ruck Coach

· Phil Reynolds – Runner

This group represents one of the most experienced and holistic coaching line-ups in the WAFL talent system, ensuring athletes receive elite-level development both on and off the field.

The formation of this department also reflects the strength of the Club’s internal pathway. Former Colts coach Michael Luca (now Reserves Midfield Coach) has recently been elevated into a senior coaching role, continuing the club’s philosophy of nurturing and progressing its own coaching talent.

Luke Richardson, General Manager – Performance Pathways & Participation, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the coaching group we’ve assembled for the 2026 Colts program. This is a highly experienced and genuinely aligned team that understands exactly what it takes to develop young footballers the right way. Their commitment to standards, care for our athletes, and connection to our broader club strategy makes this an exciting next step for our pathway.

The elevation of a coach like Michael Luca into a senior role also highlights the strength of our internal development system — we’re building coaches as well as players. With this group in place, our program is exceptionally well positioned for another year of growth and success.”

The West Perth Football Club looks forward to an exciting 2026 season as the Colts program continues its growth as a premier development environment in Western Australia.