2026 DIVISION 1 MEN’S PREVIEW: ALTONA
2025 RECAP
POSITION & RECORD (TIV Div 1):
Seniors: 9th (6-12). Reserves: 5th (11-7)
SENIOR BEST & FAIREST RESULTS:
Winner: Colby Redpath Runner up: Mitchell Van Den Berg
LEADING GOAL KICKERS:
Seniors: Connor Bulley (28 goals) Reserves: Cameron Worthing (22 goals)
TEAM OF THE YEAR SELECTIONS: Nil
WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2026
SENIOR COACH: Rodney Van Riet (1st season)
RESERVES COACH: Jack Robinson
NOTABLE GAINS: Patrick Balta (Castlemaine), Mate Colina (Richmond AFL), Ismail Sohrob (Newport), Austin Windridge (Leitchville Gunbower), Scott Beattie (Echuca United)
NOTABLE LOSSES: Jack Callaway (Barwon Heads), James Callaway (Barwon Heads), Sunday Majok (St Pauls McKinnon), Joel Menadue (Gordon), Will Naismith (Albion)
2026 SENIOR CAPTAIN: Ethan Taylor
PLAYER TO WATCH: Billy Minett. Looks set to take the next step in his footy as he closes in on 50 senior games after progressed through Altona’s junior ranks.
START TO 2026: vs Sunshine (Rd 1: Apr 11), at Newport (Rd 2: Apr 18), at Spotswood (Rd 3: Apr 25)
FROM THE COACH – Rodney Van Riet
How has preseason been for the group?
Preseason’s been really good. The intensity’s been high, but that’s what you want in pre-season. We’ve been working hard on fitness and getting sharper with the ball, and I think the team’s coming together well. The progression in each session has been fantastic to watch.
What has the group done to build connection off the field during preseason?
We’ve had multiple catch ups and training sessions away from the club to continue to build on the connections already here.
What style of play can we expect to see this season?
Structured and well drilled.
What will define a successful season in 2026?
To see progression from last year and put ourselves in a position to return to finals football.