Sports News
Announcement of our 2026 Lead Coaches
As part of our School of Excellence, we’re excited to announce the activation of Lead Sports Coaches for 2026 - a major step in creating more opportunities for every student.
These coaches will mentor students, drive excellence in the coaching staff, strengthen competition pathways and ensure that every young person has access to high-quality development and leadership opportunities.
AFL – Matt Carnie
Matt currently serves as a coach in the Bendigo Pioneers program and is in regular contact with multiple AFL and AFLW coaching staff. Matt will lead a group of coaches with more than 100 years experience coaching across multiple levels.
Netball – Casey Frame
Casey Frame will join the college in 2026 and will lead the program with years of experience. Our partnership with Bendigo Strikers will allow all students access to high level coaching philosophies.
Cricket – Regis Chakabva
Regis is known within the area as a cricketing legend. He is currently captaining and leading the Goulburn Murray Association team, as well coaching at the local level. Regi has unparalleled experience within the region.
Athletics – Ash Hare
Ash Hare is synonymous with successful sport in the region and brings with her a skillset of understanding how to balance life with sporting excellence. We are extremely fortunate to have Ash leading our impressive team of athletics coaches.
Basketball – Regan Smith
Regan Smith will lead the basketball program in 2026. Regan has a wonderful team of coaches who are passionate about development of the game and the students. Look for an increase in outside of school hours opportunities as we drive participation through the roof.
Tennis – Roxanne Dicketts
Rox has been a leader in the tennis program for a number of years and is responsible for much of the success that we have already seen. As we move to an increased participation model, look for summertime competitions, training groups and skill development programs for all.
Strength & Conditioning – Guy Campbell
We welcomed Guy to the College in Term 4 this year and he has made an immediate impact, especially with our affiliate academy members. Guy is working with athletes and groups before school, at lunchtime and after school as we utilise our wonderful Brigidine Campus gym.
These coaches will work closely with students and staff to grow our programs, develop skill and leadership, and build on the success of 2025. Their work represents what our Co-Curricular program is all about – whole-person growth through passion, discipline and teamwork.
Year 7 Boys and Girls State Tennis Finals
Our Year 7 tennis stars lit up Glen Waverley Tennis Centre in Melbourne on Friday as they took on the very best in Victoria at the SSV State Finals — and what a day they had!
Year 7 Boys
Our boys team was incredibly competitive, losing two of their three matches by only 1 and 2 games respectively to Colac and Preston Secondary College. Throughout the day, the boys displayed outstanding sportsmanship, respect, integrity and leadership, which earned them the coveted Spirit of Sport Award for their exemplary conduct on (and off) the court.
Well done to the following students: Xavier Mai, Ged Canham, Tom Arthurson, Boa Spiers and Harry Emonson.
Year 7 Girls
Our Year 7 girls put in an amazing team effort. After 3 tight matches, including a win, a draw and a loss, the girls powered their way through to the semi-finals. Despite losing to the eventual winners Maribyrnong Secondary, the girls should be incredibly proud of a Top 4 (equal 3) finish in the State!
Well done to: Maisie Stevens, Minnie Aston, Audrey Stewart, Audrey Laffan and Indi Carmichael.
We could not be prouder of these 10 students who represented St Joseph’s College with courage, class and genuine team spirit. A huge thank you to our coaches Mr Romano and Ms Dicketts for guiding our young athletes every step of the way.
The future of SJC tennis is looking very bright.
Year 8 Boys State Tennis Finals
What a day on the courts for our Year 8 Boys at the State Finals in Melbourne.
Our team kicked off against Doncaster, where Sam Henson delivered some incredible rallies, and Tom Alberni & Connor Williams fought hard in a nail-biting tie-break loss.
Next up was Northcote, and Jimmy Kervin went full beast mode - winning his singles match in a thrilling tie-break! The momentum continued as Jimmy and Connor teamed up to take down a highly touted doubles pair.
In our final clash with Wodonga, Levi Weeks dominated his singles match, Sam secured another strong win, and Connor added a singles victory to the tally. Unfortunately, we went down on countback - but what an effort from the whole squad!
A huge thank you to Coach Mr Grant and Mr Cantwell for their guidance and support throughout the day.
Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation Completed!
On Monday, eight of our coaches were fortunate to take part in a fantastic professional development opportunity, completing their Level 2 AFL Coaching Accreditation.
We were thrilled to welcome Nathan Harris from the AFL to the Kildare Campus, where he spent the day upskilling our coaches and sharing valuable insights to help guide and strengthen our programs heading into 2026.
A big thank you to our dedicated coaches for putting their hands up to grow their skills and continue supporting our students in the best possible way.
Justin Cantwell
Head of Sport