Sport
1 April, 2026
Rats eye historic fourth consecutive premiership
Ararat has firmly established itself as the benchmark of the Wimmera Football Netball League, and in 2026, the Rats stand on the brink of history. A fourth consecutive premiership is within reach, an achievement that would further cement the club’s legacy as one of the competition’s great dynasties.
The last club to achieve four straight premierships was the dominant Horsham team who won ten flags from 2003 to 2012. Prior to that, only Ararat managed the feat, claiming four consecutive flags between 1955 and 1958. Now, nearly seven decades later, the Rats have the chance to etch their name alongside their own storied past.
Despite the off-season departures of key contributors Henry Shea (North Ballarat), Jack Ganley (Port Douglas), and Flynn Toner (Ararat Eagles), Ararat remains the team to beat. The club’s ability to regenerate talent and maintain high standards has been a defining feature of its recent success.
A major boost comes with the return of Brayden Ferguson, who rejoins the club for the first time since 2018. Having spent recent seasons with Rokewood Corindhap in the Central Highlands Football League, Ferguson brings experience, toughness, and versatility. Known for his hard-nosed approach, he adds further strength to an already formidable midfield, while also offering flexibility across half-back or forward roles.
However, the Rats will need to navigate the early part of the season without Sonny Kettle and Matthew Spalding, both sidelined through injury. Their absence will test the club’s depth early, though Ararat has proven in recent years that it possesses the resilience and list strength to cover key losses.
Leading the charge once again is coach Tom Williamson, who returns in a solo capacity this season. Williamson has been encouraged by the club’s preparation, highlighting a strong and consistent pre-season.
“The preparation has come along well, and we have had strong numbers throughout,” Williamson said.
“We played a solid practice match against Torquay where we could refine a few things before the season starts.
“We have had a few players go under the knife following the grand final, and we will get them back soon. It will be all about the back end of the season.”
Ararat’s success in 2025 was underpinned by its depth, with reserves players and emerging juniors stepping up when called upon. That depth looms as a critical factor again in 2026.
Williamson is particularly excited by the development of Pat and Hugh Toner, both of whom have impressed over the pre-season and are poised to take on greater responsibility at senior level.
In addition, a new wave of young talent is pressing for selection. Sam Harrington, Sam Preston, and Reggie Jenkins have all caught the coach’s eye with their progress and work rate. Jenkins made his senior debut in round five last season against Southern Mallee Thunder and went on to add five more games, showing promising signs at the top level.
Harrington and Preston are yet to debut in the senior side, but have continued to build their case. Harrington featured in one reserves match last season, while Preston played five.
“All three players are developing into their bodies nicely,” Williamson said.
“They are putting their hands up for selection and looked good in the match against Torquay.”
With a blend of established stars, returning experience, and emerging youth, Ararat enters the new season well-positioned to extend its dominance. The pursuit of a historic four-peat will bring added pressure, but it is a challenge the Rats appear ready to embrace.
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