2026 DIVISION 1 MEN’S PREVIEW: PARKSIDE
2025 RECAP
POSITION & RECORD (TIV Div 1):
Seniors: 6th (8-10). Reserves: 6th (9-8-1)
SENIOR BEST & FAIREST RESULTS:
Winner: Bruno Laguda Runner up: Michael Jubb
LEADING GOAL KICKERS:
Seniors: Tom Condon (34 goals) Reserves: MatthewĀ Shepperbottom (17 goals)
TEAM OF THE YEAR SELECTIONS: Bruno Laguda (W)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2026
SENIOR HEAD COACH: Chris Muratore (9th season)
RESERVES COACH: Tristan Kassis
NOTABLE GAINS: Justin Cappelletti (Airport West), Blake Jago (Suns), Julian Janev (Thomastown), Charlie Khoury (Thomastown) Deagan Madden (Longford – NTFA), Tiernan McCormack (Launceston – NTFA), Zach Morris (Launceston NTFA)
NOTABLE LOSSES: O’Neill Moncrieff, (Bundoora), Luke Rowland (Essendon Doutta Stars), Tom Stapleton (Seymour), Jonah Vraca (Congupna)
2026 SENIOR CAPTAIN: Jackson Barrett
PLAYER TO WATCH: Cooper Ellis. Returning from an ACL and is ready to fire after flashing his potential previously. The talented midfielder played two VFL games for the Northern Bullants in 2024.
START TO 2026: at Yarraville Seddon (Rd 1: Apr 11), vs Albion (Rd 2: Apr 18), vs Newport (Rd 3: Apr 25)
FROM THE COACH – Chris Muratore
What have been the main areas of focus during preseason training?
One of our main focuses has been connection and the group buying in to all want the same outcome. Preseason camp is always good fun and one of the best ways to bring a group together. We are lucky to have group that has set a great foundation for the season ahead.
Who are the leaders helping drive standards within the group?
Our leadership group is really leading by example. Our captain Jackson Barrett has had a huge preseason, Bruno Laguda our best and fairest last year is the fittest he’s been and we’re excited to see Ethan Henley and Tom Condon back fully healthy.
What style of play can we expect to see this season?
An exciting and fast brand of footy.
What will define a successful season in 2026?
Lifting a cup at the end of the year is obviously the ultimate goal for every club but for us we want to just make sure we come to play week in, week out. If we do that and stay healthy the rest will take care of itself.