MEET THE GFNL SENIOR COACHES

The Geelong West Giants enter the 2026 Geelong Football Netball League season with clear intent, strong leadership, and a firm commitment to building a competitive, high-performance senior football program.

At the helm of the program is Chris Browne, who leads the senior group as Head Coach. Chris brings a structured, process-driven coaching style underpinned by meticulous attention to detail. His approach aligns directly with the club’s vision for sustained success, demanding high standards, accountability, and consistency across all areas of the program. His leadership will be central to establishing a disciplined, connected, and resilient playing group capable of competing at GFNL level.

Supporting Chris is Assistant Coach Wade Chapman, who enters his second season with the Giants. Wade provides continuity, experience, and elite-level insight to the senior coaching group. A former AFL player, he brings a deep understanding of the game, strong tactical awareness, and a proven ability to mentor and develop players. His influence continues to strengthen standards, reinforce professionalism, and support the growth of the playing group.

The coaching group is further strengthened by the appointment of Mark Stewart, a legendary Geelong local football figure whose experience and football knowledge are unmatched. Mark reached the remarkable 600-game milestone in 2023 at the age of 50, a testament to his longevity, commitment, and love of the game. His decorated playing career included stints at St Albans, Corio, and Newcomb, highlighted by winning the GFL Mathieson Medal in 1998 and the GDFL Whitley Medal in 1992. Mark’s presence adds invaluable leadership, credibility, and local football insight to the senior program.

Adding further depth to the leadership group is Nathan Storer, a values-driven leader with an extensive background in education and high-performance environments. Nathan has spent many years with the Department of Education, including serving as an Educational Coach across South-West Victoria, where he specialised in teaching, learning, and systems change. His football experience includes roles as a BFL Assistant Coach and Interim Senior Coach in 2025. Nathan prioritises genuine connection, growth, and strong culture, ensuring players and staff are supported to perform at their best.

The Giants’ physical preparation is led by Louie Mott, Strength & Conditioning and High Performance Grappling Coach. Louie brings extensive experience across elite sporting environments, including Melbourne Storm, Bendigo Braves NBL1, and his current role as Geelong Cats AFLW Grappling and Tackling Coach. A current National Judo team member who has represented Australia multiple times, Louie delivers elite expertise in strength, movement, contact skills, and injury-resilient performance.

The senior program is also supported by the Barwon Sports Physio team, providing professional injury management, rehabilitation, and performance support. This partnership reinforces the club’s commitment to player welfare, durability, and long-term performance.

Together, this leadership and support group reflects the Geelong West Giants’ ambition to build a senior football program defined by professional standards, physical excellence, strong values, and a relentless drive as the club moves confidently into the 2026 season and beyond.