BLUES 2026 SEASON LAUNCH RECAP

The Frankston Blues officially launched their 2026 NBL1 South and Youth League campaigns on Wednesday night, bringing together players, coaches, club officials and supporters for a memorable Season Launch event.

Blues women’s forward Lou Brown brought fresh energy in her debut MC role alongside long-time Blues MC and court announcer Chris Sermeno. FDBA CEO Wayne Holdsworth then welcomed the room, acknowledging several key figures in attendance, including NBL1 South League Manager Alison Cody and other contributors from Basketball Victoria. Wayne also spoke candidly about the challenges of operating without a home stadium, while encouraging everyone to stay committed as the club moves closer to the opening of a brand new stadium, now just a year away.

Programs Lead Rochelle Dullard was then formally introduced, having commenced in the role in August 2025. A lifelong Blue since her junior days, Rochelle spoke about her commitment to creating the best possible environment for the club. She has already made a strong impact, helping secure court hire at Hoop City and bringing in new sponsors to support the junior program.

Former NBL1 Women’s head coach Dean Kinsman was welcomed to the stage to warm applause, reflecting fondly on the group he once coached. A particularly special moment came when he shared the stage with Lou Brown, whom he has known since her time at Rowville Sports Academy.

Attention then turned to the Big V Youth teams, with newly appointed women’s head coach Grace Bignell and experienced men’s coach Duncan Berg introducing their squads. Both coaches spoke openly about the challenges their teams face, including the need for players to step into NBL1 roles when injuries impact the senior program, while also outlining their goals for the season ahead.

The focus then shifted to the Frankston Blues’ NBL1 teams. Women’s head coach Jo Wood shared that a theme for her group in 2026 will be “back yourself.” She reflected on a meaningful training moment in which she told the team that, in her first season as head coach, there would inevitably be mistakes. Team leaders quickly reassured her that mistakes would not define the journey and encouraged her to back herself – advice Jo said she will continue to lean on throughout the season.

Men’s head coach Andrew Harms then introduced the men’s team mantra for 2026: “hard to kill.” He explained that the phrase captures the resilience and competitiveness he wants his young group to embody, especially with the majority of the roster under 25 years of age.

The night concluded with closing remarks from FDBA President Tim Bower, who reminded everyone that the challenges faced by the club are small in comparison to those happening elsewhere in the world. He urged the Frankston Blues community to use that perspective as motivation to improve, compete harder and embrace the opportunities ahead.

With a strong blend of returning talent and exciting new faces, the Frankston Blues head into 2026 full of optimism and ready for a unique and exciting season.