The 2026 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. Next, we chat to Northern Saints co-coaches Antony Papalia and Tamer Abdallah who provide some insights on their 2026 campaign.
2025: 8th (5W, 12L, 1D, 80.13%)
Coaches: Antony Papalia and Tamer Abdallah
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"Over the pre-season we have been primarily focused on filling some holes in areas of need and changing our gameplan and structures. The depth on the list has been solid over the years but we are rejuvenating the list and really focusing on youth for long-term sustainability and success.
"Last year we were really good moving the ball forward but got cut up on turnover, especially on our half forward line. Conceding goals in quick succession was also an area that we wanted to tackle.
"Contested ball has been our biggest strength for two seasons, but we have added some silky outside players to become a more balanced team."
LIST SHAPE
"We're really pleased with the shape of the list, thus far, we identified very early that we lacked top-end talent between the ages of 18 and 24, which was our target for recruiting in the off-season.
"We feel we've addressed areas of need with youth, pace, and excitement.
"It is always sad to see players go and we thank them for their contribution to the club over the years, but this gives an opportunity to a young guy that may not have gotten exposure to senior footy. The club has done a fantastic job in the junior program and a big part of our senior program is to build a solid pathway for our junior players and this involves having senior coaches and players mentoring the kids."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"Zac Merhi is a 19-year-old recruit from Moonee Valley, 6’4” utility, Zac brings a lot of flare definitely one to watch for years to come.
"Ayman Awo is a mature age recruit from Northcote, a very silky footballer that is not shy around goal and has great defensive attributes.
"Fouad Chabaani is a 21-year-old recruit from Pascoe Vale, a Northern Saints junior returning to the club.
"Saeed Abdulwahed is another returning player spending a lot of time in the midfield.
"Nick Bruno has done a fair few minutes in the midfield during pre-season and has not missed a beat.
"Daniel Trikilis is in the best shape of his career.
"Mohammed “Bash” Rabah is a 19-year-old who has had an unbelievable pre-season. He started to show signs that he was ready for senior footy in 2025, he has come back bigger, stronger, and fitter.
"Thomas Pelaccia continues to mature as a senior footballer. At 23 years of age his best is yet to come."
2026 OUTLOOK
"We want to be a more consistent and high-pressure team in 2026.
"The ultimate goal is obvious, but the re-building of our list and youth development is vital on-field. Off the field, our focus is the local community that supports us and representing the club, league, and our sponsors with the highest regard.
"From a club perspective, our junior program was brilliant in 2025 and it is looking likely to be repeated."
ON THE RECORD WITH ANTONY PAPALIA AND TAMER ABDALLAH
Biggest pest at the club?
Wissam Abdul-Wahed, not so much the pest but definitely the most entertaining.
Afternoon, Twilight, Night AFL grand final?
Afternoon.
Is there a cult hero at the club?
Nick Bruno.
Which AFL player would you cherry-pick for your side?
Errol Gulden or Marcus Bontempelli.
Shot after the siren to win, who do you want kicking it?
Nick Bruno.
What are your favourite qualities in players you coach?
The camaraderie in the group and definitely the embrace for changes they have shown.
Should AFL State of Origin become a permanent fixture?
Absolutely.
Hardest opposition player to coach against?
Jack McNamara (Coburg Districts).
Flag tip outside of your club?
Glenroy – favourites.
Westmeadows – definitely have the list to do it.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Jihad Mourad (Coburg Districts), Daniel O'Keefe (Wallan), Hassan Bakkar (Newport), Bilal Abdullatif (Pascoe Vale), Shady Haddara (Wyndham Suns), Radwan Haddara (Newport), Zachari Merhi (Moonee Valley), saeed Abdul-Wahed (Glenroy), Hamdou Elbouch (Roxburgh Park), Christian Moussa (Kilmore), Fouad Chaabani (Pascoe Vale).
Out: Lucas Mardini (South Morang), Jake Maurici (Tullamarine), Jake Tuohey (West Coburg), Mohammad Taleb (Coburg Districts), Mohammed Abdallah (Coburg Districts), Mohammed Ayache (West Coburg), Fares Hamoud (Doncaster), Khoder Taleb (West Coburg).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
The Northern Saints are rejuvenated following a down 2025 with Antony Papalia joining Tamer Abdallah as co-coach, along with some fresh faces on the playing list. Two-time league leading goal kicker Khoder Taleb will take some replacing in the front half, although new structures Papalia and Abdallah discussed may open up scoring avenues, especially with the teasing of Nick Bruno spending time around the ball. It'll take some improving to move into finals in a tough division, but if the enigmatic Saints can bridge their best and worst, it'll be an interesting watch at Charles Mutton Reserve.
