Hi everyone,

In the final Moonee Valley Express for 2025, we take a look back at yet another HUGE season. Firstly however, I want to take a moment to extend a thank you to our entire community—players, coaches, team managers, volunteers, families, and supporters. You are what makes this club so special!

Season 2025

This year we had 14 Moonee Valley junior teams take the field, with an incredible 40% female participation. We were thrilled to have two outstanding female head coaches leading from the front, and to see U18.5s player, Isobal Robertson, step into a leadership role as assistant coach of the Girls U14s. Her contribution reflects the kind of mentorship and club culture we’re striving to build. Female leadership within our club remains a key focus, and it’s great to see real progress being made—not just in numbers, but in the quality of involvement and impact.

We had a remarkable five teams make it through to the final series this season, with four going on to make grand finals, and three being crowned premiers. What an incredible way to cap off the season.

Congratulations to the following 2025 premiership teams:

Boys U10 (Division 3)
Girls U12-1 (Division 2)
Boys U14 (Division 2)

Congratulations also to our Girls U10s and Boys U16 (Division 2) teams for participating in finals.

In addition to our impressive team successes this season, we’re proud to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of several Moonee Valley juniors who were recognised with pathway selections into talent development programs. This year we had nine players selected for the Calder Cannons (two boys, seven girls), and 11 players selected to participate in Interleague (five boys, six girls). An outstanding effort by all involved. See below for full details.

Once again we continued to thrive as a vibrant community hub off field this season, with our famous Friday nights and a host of new social events. These moments bring families together, strengthen friendships, and create memories that last well beyond the final siren.

Some of our other highlights included:

☑️ Matt Beattie Junior Preseason Program
☑️ Changing The Game, a mental resilience program for U14 & U16 teams
☑️ Mother’s Days raffle, with proceeds going to local charity, GenWest
☑️ The Joondalup U16 Exhibition match
☑️ Thriving Auskick program, with 140+ participants

Whilst the season brought plenty of highlights, we also had some challenges—particularly around player numbers across several key age groups. It’s a reminder of the importance of continued growth and engagement at every level of our junior program. With that in mind, planning is already underway to address these gaps ahead of Season 2026. We are committed to ensuring every age group is well supported and thriving.

Thanks to everyone who helped us navigate this year with resilience and optimism. Together, we’ll keep building a strong future for Moonee Valley.

We’re already looking forward to next season, but for now—enjoy the break, rest up, and celebrate everything we’ve achieved together in 2025.

On a final note, I’m excited to welcome Justin Giuliano to the role of Junior President and Club Vice President for the 2026 season—a brilliant appointment for the club. Justin brings passion, experience, and commitment to the role, and I’m confident he’ll lead with vision and integrity. Backed by a well-established committee, Justin and team are perfectly placed to take our junior program to the next level—building on our strong foundations and continuing to grow our community both on and off the field.

Paul McMenamin
Junior President

2025 PATHWAY REPRESENTATIVES

Calder Cannons
Ashleigh Story, Girls U18
Madeleine Thompson, Girls U18
Ruby Welsh, Girls U18
Sienna Colgan, Girls U18
Lily Frangoulis, Girls U18
Coen McGrath, U18 Boys
Elebertina Schuliga, U16 Girls (Co-Captain)
Alyssia Randello, U16 Girls
George Holderhead, U16 Boys

Interleague
Hazel Lichter, U15 Girls
Mia Colgan, U15 Girls
Max Featherby, U15 Boys
Aidan Plunkett, U15 Boys
Henry Smith, U15 Boys
Joshua MacFarlane, U15 Boys
Isabella Chiera, U14 Girls
Audrey Mahoney, U14 Girls
Lucy Walkom, U14 Girls
Zac Frangoulis, U14 Boys
Rachel Barone, U13 Girls