The commencement of the 2026 season has brought with it a real sense of energy and optimism across the Club. Our pre season began back in early November 2025, and from the first session, there was a noticeable lift in commitment, with strong numbers consistently attending training. That level of engagement has set a positive tone for the year ahead and reflects the excitement building within both the playing group and the broader Club community.
Our women’s program has also returned in a very encouraging position, with around 70% of the team made up of OWs, which is fantastic news for the continued connection between the Club and the school. To help strengthen the program in 2026, we have entered a joint team arrangement with Prahran Football Club for this season. This partnership will ensure healthy playing numbers while giving our women the best opportunity to enjoy their football in a competitive and supportive environment.
The Club will field four men’s teams in 2026, highlighting the depth that continues to build in our playing list. There is genuine excitement around a number of new faces at the club, none more notable than Sam Frost (OW2010). Sam was a Premiership player in the Wesley football program and returns to Collegians after a distinguished AFL career with both the Melbourne and Hawthorn Football Clubs, bringing invaluable experience and leadership.
Off the field, 2026 marks the first year of the Club’s strategic plan – Towards 2030, which is already beginning to shape the future direction of Collegians.
There are exciting developments in the communications space, with a refreshed digital presence helping members stay connected through the Club website and social channels. We recently held a highly successful season launch at River's Edge Events, with 120 attendees enjoying a sit-down lunch and hearing from guest speakers Paul Guerra (past parent) and Jackie Parry (OW2014). The Club has also established eight sub-committees that are now gaining momentum, each focused on driving key areas of the club forward and creating long-term stability both administratively and financially.
The 2026 season will also be supported by a strong calendar of events designed to bring the Collegians community together. Four major reunions for the 1961, 1986, 2006 and 2011 groups, a Mother’s Day breakfast, Back to School Round at the Glen Waverley Campus, school matches under lights, and a special Friday night fixture against Old Melburnians following the Wesley versus Melbourne Grammar school match all promise to make it a memorable year.
With momentum building on and off the field, the Club is looking forward to a successful season and continuing that growth well into 2027.
A special thank you to our valued sponsors for their continued support:
- Atkin Partners Lawyers
- Australian Venue company – The PASS
- Bastion
- Bendigo Bank – Community Bank East Malvern
- Big Wet Spring Water
- Jefferson Automotive
- KOR
- Mercedes-Benz Waverley
- Oxley Nets
- OWCA
- Tellurian – Heathcote
- Total Facility Maintenance
