Bellarine Storm is pleased to announce the appointment of David Smith as Head Coach of the Championship Women’s team for the 2026 Big V season.
David has been an integral part of the Storm’s senior and junior programs for several years and brings with him a proven track record of success and player development within the club.
He first joined the senior program as the inaugural Head Coach of the Youth League Women’s team in 2022, guiding the side to a runners-up finish in its debut season. The following year, he again led the team to the Grand Final, earning recognition as the Big V Youth League 2 Women’s Coach of the Year in 2023. In 2024, his team continued its upward trajectory, finishing fifth on the ladder before going on a remarkable run to win the Youth League 2 Women’s Championship.
In 2025, Smith joined the Championship Women’s coaching staff as an Assistant Coach, contributing to one of the most successful seasons in club history — a 19–3 record and Grand Final appearance.
Bellarine General Manager Nick Stamatopoulos said the appointment continues the strong foundation laid by outgoing Head Coach Tim Sanderson:
“David has been an important part of our coaching structure over the past few years and is highly respected by players and staff alike. His progression to the Championship Women’s role is a natural one — he understands the culture, the standards, and the expectations that have been built. We’re confident that under his leadership, the program will continue to thrive.”
Smith said he is excited for the opportunity to lead the program at the next level:
“I’m incredibly honoured to accept such a tremendous opportunity. I’m excited about the journey ahead and ready to get started as we aim to go one better in 2026.”
The Bellarine Storm congratulates David on his appointment and looks forward to seeing him lead the Championship Women’s team into another exciting Big V season.