The 2026 season is just around the corner so EDFL Media will be previewing each club heading into Round One. Next, we chat to East Sunbury coach Mark Hourigan who provides some insights on their 2026 campaign.
2025: 6th (0W, 14L, 7.17%)
Coach: Mark Hourigan
PRE-SEASON FOCUS
"We've been focused on developing a women’s football program that is sustainable in today’s environment and for its future growth at the East Sunbury Football Club.
"The environment for improvement had been set by a core group of players from the previous season with a lot of them completing various fitness programs. This leads into one of the new objectives for the women’s program this season which is to be better prepared for our football games.
"We've been looking to build upon our match fitness and game awareness during this pre-season."
PLAYERS TO WATCH
"We have been quite proactive in the recruiting area this season so it’s difficult to pinpoint any players at this stage.
"The whole playing list has had a strong pre-season so I’m looking forward to seeing an improvement from them all."
2026 OUTLOOK
"Our biggest goal for 2026 is to be more competitive than the previous seasons.
"One of our main goals is to become a respected playing group on and off the ground and it would be nice to win a game.
"We want to develop a female football program for all ages that is safe, fun, and rewarding for all those involved.
"Last year, all the team showed great drive to be better and more competitive, and this is something that we'd like to see again this season."
ON THE RECORD WITH MARK HOURIGAN
Biggest pest at the club?
Unfortunately, I haven't come across any that stand out but give it time, they always show up.
Is there a cult hero at the club?
Brendan Fevola.
Which AFLW player would you cherry-pick for your side?
Maddy Prespakis.
What are your favourite qualities in players you coach?
Players who let their actions do the talking on the football field.
Should AFLW Origin join the men's showcase and in what format?
I’m all for equality in women’s football including that they be given the same opportunities to display their abilities as the men’s programs. This also includes representative games at local levels.
LODGED TRANSFERS
In: Ruby Taranto (Keilor), Jacinta Lee (Sunbury Lions), Cara Clarke (Riddell), Stephanie Jones (Macedon), Mariam Habib (Riddell), Molly Connell (Riddell), Charrouf Habib (Riddell), Breanna Tarczon (Riddell).
Out: Rebecca Gillon (Taylors Lakes), Shelby Grinter (Port Douglas Crocs).
EDFL MEDIA SAYS
East Sunbury continues to search for its first women's win and has taken a big step in the right direction with a fruitful off-season. Mark Hourigan is at the helm and has welcomed a swathe of new recruits which should lift the ability of the list. The Thunder will host Sunbury Lions in Round 1, is a win finally on the horizon?
