Sport
27 March, 2026
Fresh-look Lions poised for 2026
The Great Western Lions senior football side will unveil a refreshed lineup in 2026, marking the beginning of a new era under co-coaches Tom Randone and Adam Bonner in the Mininera District Football League.
Following the departure of former coach Nigel Sibson to the Swifts in the Horsham District Football Netball League, the Lions have undergone significant change, turning over approximately 60 per cent of their playing list.
Despite the transition, Randone is embracing the opportunity ahead.
“It came as a bit of a surprise late last year. Coaching wasn’t something I had been considering, but after taking some time to think it over, I decided to take on the challenge,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity to try something new, and I’ve grabbed it with both hands.
“Adam brings a wealth of experience. He coached me as a junior and has excellent football knowledge, so we complement each other really well.”
The Lions have bolstered their squad with several key recruits, including Swifts' trio Zac Armer, Ethan Blake and Seth Blake.
Seth Blake is expected to strengthen the forward line, while Ethan will add toughness and presence through the midfield.
Seth shares a strong family history with the club, with his grandfather part of the Lions’ 1962 premiership side.
Armer will add further depth to the midfield with his pace, endurance and polished ball use.
Other notable inclusions include Dan Ladgrove from Bannockburn, along with Mason Davis and Mitch Clark from Drysdale.
Ladgrove brings valuable experience to the defensive unit, having previously secured premiership success and a best-and-fairest award in the Geelong Football League.
Davis, a key position player, is likely to feature at centre-half-forward, while Clark will add further strength to the midfield rotation.
Brent Norfolk has also joined from Tatyoon and brings leadership and experience, along with a family link to emerging talents Levi and Xavier Wilson as their uncle.
Randone highlighted Levi Wilson and Riley McArthur as exciting young players to watch this season.
“Levi played a handful of senior games last year and showed promising signs,” he said.
“He’ll miss the opening rounds with a broken hand, but he’s going to play an important role for us as an attacking player.
“Riley is still coming through the junior ranks, but has been outstanding on the track. We’re really looking forward to seeing his development this year.”
Randone said the club’s pre-season had been a major positive, with improved numbers and energy setting a strong foundation.
“We’ve had a really solid pre-season, averaging more than 25 players at training each night, which is a big improvement on last year,” he said.
“The goal is to play finals, and to get there, we need to be more consistent week to week.
“With greater depth across the list, expectations are higher this season. We want to play a more composed and disciplined brand of football.”
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