The 2026 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. Next, we chat to Oak Park coach Luke Williams who provides some insights on their 2026 campaign.
2025: 1st (15W, 3L, 140.18%)
Coach: Luke Williams
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"Our primary focuses this pre‑season have been building relationships and trust, learning a new game style, especially around contest work and transition. We’ve really emphasised fitness, system clarity, and sharpening our decision‑making under pressure.
"Last season highlighted the need to be more resilient in momentum swings and to convert opportunities going forward. We took some strong lessons from close losses — particularly around composure late in games — and we’ve embedded those scenarios into training.
"Our speed on the outside, young depth, and defensive cohesion were areas identified for improvement. We want to build on that and become even more dynamic in how we move the ball and set up behind it."
LIST SHAPE
"Only one confirmed retirement at this point. We have added some real good people to our list that can play, we have several emerging young players, and versatile role‑players. We feel we’ve got good mix across all lines.
"Recruiting was very targeted this year — we added players who bring speed, ground‑level pressure, and flexibility. That directly addresses the gaps we identified at the end of last season."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"Obvious ones, Taylor, MacGregor, Pascu, and Stredwick.
"Excited to see Tyson Old and Macca Hallows showcase their talent having played at a higher level. We will invest in our younger players like Payne, Jinks, Cannon, and McRae
2026 OUTLOOK
"We would like to play a consistent competitive brand of football. Clearly outside expectations are high, but we are realistic that a new gameplan can take time to implement.
"We are aiming to expose as many players as possible to senior footy this year to create even more competition for spots.
"The club is going from strength to strength off field. A new committee has seen a renewed focus on strengthening community engagement, member experience, and overall club culture."
ON THE RECORD WITH LUKE WILLIAMS
Biggest pest at the club?
Aiden Mezzatesta.
Afternoon, Twilight, Night AFL grand final?
I’m a traditionalist. Leave as is.
Is there a cult hero at the club?
Adam Clemente.
Which AFL player would you cherry-pick for your side?
Will Ashcroft.
Shot after the siren to win, who do you want kicking it?
Adam Del Busso.
What are your favourite qualities in players you coach?
Coachability, team-first mindset, and willingness to learn.
Should AFL State of Origin become a permanent fixture?
If we can make it work with the schedule — absolutely.
Flag tip outside of Oak Park?
Craigieburn.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Nathan Sokolowski (Reservoir), Rocky Gallicchio (Pascoe Vale), Harry Groen (Williamstown CYMS), Kurt Armistead (Birregurra), Harrison Johansen (West Coast), John Hurry (Strathmore), Isaak Warburton (Strathmore), julian michielin (Coburg Districts), Liam Middleton (Coburg Districts), Bojan Leggieri (Therry Penola), Jack Manning (Tullamarine), Benjamin Smokrovic (Aberfeldie), Nathan Saliba (Coburg Districts), Wil Oosterhof (Strathmore), Maclayn Hallows (Pascoe Vale), Oliver Warburton (Strathmore), Nathan Valladares (West Preston-Lakeside), Sam Bruinewoud (Red Cliffs), Tyson Old (Red Cliffs).
Out: Justin Colliss (Craigieburn Eagles), Jackson Harry (St Albans), Luke Howard (Ascot Vale), Harley Cannell (Sunbury), Graeme Whiting (Merrifield), Benjamin Dunford (Merrifield), Jack McQuillan (Therry Penola), Charlie Catena (St Bernards), Roman Gallivan (St Bernards), Zachary Graham (Avenel).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
Oak Park enter 2026 as one of the premiership favourites after a grand final appearance in 2025. The minor premiers were heavily fancied in the last game of the year, but were unable to make the most of the their opportunities in front of goal. Luke Williams replaces Todd Clark as coach, with Tyson Old and Mac Hallows adding to the top end. West Coburg in Round 2 will be an early blockbuster.
