2026 DIVISION 1 MEN’S PREVIEW: WERRIBEE DISTRICTS
2025 RECAP
POSITION & RECORD (TIV Div 1):
Seniors: Premiers (16-2 F: 2-0). Reserves: Premiers (17-1 F:2-0)
SENIOR BEST & FAIREST RESULTS:
Winner: Harrison White Runner up: Sean Gregory
LEADING GOAL KICKERS:
Seniors: Daniel Nielson (70 goals) Reserves: Shaun McGuinness (66 goals)
TEAM OF THE YEAR SELECTIONS: Sean Gregory (CHB), Harrison White (HF), Daniel Nielson (FF), Dillon Viojo-Rainbow (Int), Josh Mould (Int)
WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2026
SENIOR HEAD COACH: Chris Gilham (10th season)
RESERVES COACH: Rhy New
NOTABLE GAINS: Nil
NOTABLE LOSSES: Ben McMahon (Daylesford), Harley Blake (Kyneton)
2026 SENIOR CAPTAIN: Dillon Viojo-Rainbow
PLAYER TO WATCH: Garrett Spinks. After injury ended his 2025 season early, is on track to regain the form that saw him start to impact games and cement his place at senior level.
START TO 2026: vs Caroline Springs (Rd 1: Apr 11), at Point Cook Centrals (Rd 2: Apr 18), at Hoppers Crossing (Rd 3: Apr 25)
FROM THE COACH – Chris Gilham
How has the preseason been for the group?
It’s been all pretty smooth, the boys have put in a very solid block post-Christmas and are in good shape heading into the new season.
What have been the main areas of focus during preseason training?
Just continuing to work on the execution of our game style. Not a lot of change but you can always fine tune it.
Have there been any standout moments or highlights from preseason?
We had our first preseason camp in quiet a few years. Player driven and it was mixture of hard work and continuing to build on players strong connection. Also, our Saturday morning sessions and the variety of different training sessions players have enjoyed and were well attended.
What will define a successful season in 2026?
Our goal is to win enough games to qualify for finals and from there you’re a chance. If you qualify and win a final you’d always say that is a successful season, so that’s our first goal. There are plenty of challenges along the way like every other team over the grind of the season and all the ups and downs that come with footy over 5-6 months.