By Mietta Williams, Williamstown Media
Last year saw the Seagulls showcase resilience across the home-and-away season, finishing with a 10-8 record to secure 10th position and a place in the Wildcard Finals.
While the finals run ended with an elimination loss to the Casey Demons, the campaign delivered valuable development and reinforced the club’s direction heading into 2026.
With momentum building, a dynamic and experienced coaching group is set to drive the program forward.
Senior Coach, Justin Plapp
Justin Plapp enters his sixth season at the helm, continuing to shape the standards and identity of the Club.
Armed with seven years of AFL experience, Plapp is driven to take the Seagulls deeper into September in 2026. His longevity at the Club also plays a crucial role in uniting the playing group, bridging the gap between emerging talent and experienced leaders.
That connection will be especially significant with the return of Kal Dawson to Williamstown following his time at North Melbourne. Having coached Dawson during his initial stint at the Club, Plapp’s existing relationship and understanding of his development places him in a strong position to seamlessly reintegrate him into the program, while strengthening cohesion across the group.
Senior Assistant Coach, Danny Ryan
Danny Ryan enters his second season at Williamstown, stepping into the role of Senior Assistant Coach again for 2026.
A highly experienced figure in the VFL system, Ryan previously spent five seasons as Senior Coach of Frankston, where he developed a strong program that saw five players drafted to the AFL, while also driving community initiatives.
With a strong background in standalone clubs, Ryan brings a clear understanding of player development and team cohesion, continuing to play a key role in shaping Williamstown both on and off the field.
Assistant Coaches
A well-balanced group of line coaches will deliver clarity and impact across the ground.
Ryan Thomson leads the forward unit, bringing a strong playing and development background. A former Richmond VFL player and 100-game Aspley Hornets NEAFL player, including a 2014 premiership, Thomson has transitioned into coaching over the past two seasons in the development space with Wilston Grange (QAFL).
Now stepping into the forward line coach role at Williamstown, Thomson arrives with proven success behind him and will be looking to bring that premiership pedigree to the Seagulls in 2026, while embracing the ‘Willy Way’ and building strong connections across the Club.
Tony Regan takes charge of the midfield, bringing a wealth of experience across both VFL programs and elite junior pathways. He spent the past two seasons with the Eastern Ranges as midfield coach, highlighted by a Coates Talent League premiership in 2025.
His coaching journey also includes roles with Frankston VFL (midfield), Coburg VFL (backline) and the Sandringham Dragons as a development coach, giving him a well-rounded understanding of the game across all lines.
With a background in education, holding a degree in Exercise Science and a Master’s in Educational Leadership, Regan combines strong technical knowledge with a clear focus on player development and high-performance standards.
Returning, Mark Greenshields will continue to add valuable experience to the midfield and forward line. A former Western Jets Head Coach and Williamstown representative, his strong ties to the Club combined with his background in player development make him a valuable returning member of Williamstown’s coaching group.
Development Coaches
Continuity remains a strength within Williamstown’s development program, with Paddy Farley, Ylber Zijai and Mark Smyth all returning in 2026.
Smyth will again lead the squad, building on the strong relationships and trust he has established with the playing group. His leadership and care for the Club continue to provide a strong foundation for emerging talent.
Farley enters his second season, bringing valuable experience from his time at Point Cook and continuing to play a key role in preparing players for senior opportunities.
Zijai also returns, offering VFL experience and a strong understanding of the program. Having previously played under Senior Coach Justin Plapp, his existing relationship and insight make him a valuable mentor for the Club’s developing players.
Rohan Connors joins the development coaching group, bringing a strong background in player development across both community and state league football. He spent several years coaching a range of age groups at Bacchus Marsh, building a solid foundation before earning an opportunity at VFL level with Port Melbourne in 2024.
Most recently, Connors served as Forward Line Coach at the Northern Bullants, further developing his craft at state league level. His experience and focus on growth and skill development add valuable depth to Williamstown’s development program.
Support Staff
Lastly, a high-performing support team underpins the program.
Head Analyst Alex Stork enters his second year, continuing to deliver key performance insights backed by his sport science and management background.
Luke Nelson provides specialised forward-line analysis, combining statistical expertise with detailed vision and reporting to sharpen decision-making and performance.
Head Physiotherapist Alistair Morton brings extensive experience across elite and sub-elite football, ensuring the playing group is well supported.
He holds a Doctor of Physiotherapy from the University of Melbourne and a Bachelor of Exercise Science from La Trobe University, combining clinical expertise with a background in strength and conditioning. His experience includes roles in Performance Analysis and Sport Science at Carlton Football Club, as well as Head Physiotherapist at the Dandenong Stingrays.
With a strengthened coaching structure and clear direction, Williamstown heads into 2026 ready to build consistency and make its mark.
The journey starts now.
