The Port Melbourne Colts are proud to announce that we have secured Lindsay Gilbee as our senior coach for 2019 despite him being pursued by high profile VAFA and Eastern clubs.

Our Coaching selection panel consisting of Senior President Stephen Duvnjak, Juniors President Darren Williams, former Colts President and Current Coburg President Kevin Breen, along with Stacy Massis who played 219 senior games for the Colts, had multiple candidates apply and present, however it was Lindsay who came out on top successfully presenting a game plan and structure that would suit our current list, and more importantly build towards professionalism across the board and long term successful sustainability for club in Division 1 of the Southern Legue.

Lindsay who is known for having one of the best kicks in the game, has played 206 AFL games for the Western Bulldogs (21 most games played games at the dogs), 44 VFL games for Werribee, 13 VFL games for Williamstown, is an ‘all Australian’ having represented Australia in 3 international rules games, Senior Coach for VFL side Sandringham in 2017, and has come to the Port Melbourne Colts after this year finishing a 6 year stint with AFL side St Kilda as their development coach.

The coaching announcement was made by our President at the Colts annual AFL Grand Final Eve Luncheon which featured Billy Brownless, Spud Frawely, David Schwartz, Ricky Nixon, Paul Licuria (who donated back his appearance fee), UFC Fighter Daniel Kelly & a special last minute appearance form Glen Jakovich.

“Really looking forward to what’s ahead,’’ Gilbee, 37, who played 206 games for the Dogs between 2001-12, said Friday in an interview with the Herald Sun after the announcement.

“They (Colts) have been open and honest about where they’re at, and where they need to get better, and I think I can help in those areas.

“I’ll bring a wealth of experience to the club and hopefully the boys who play under me, I’ll keep it simple for them and they’re clear about what they have to do when they run out on match day.

“I’m aware they struggled a bit this year. They had quite a few injuries apparently — they played close to 50 players — but they’re looking to recruit, which is positive. They’ve got some really good people on board at the club. I’m looking to work closely with those guys and hopefully we can take the club forward.’’

Gilbee said he was eager to coach his own team again after his one season with Sandringham.

“I learned a lot in regards to managing individuals. Each individual is different. You learn a lot in that aspect. You’re in charge of everything. But I’m not an umbrella coach. I’m not one to hover over everyone. I trust everyone to do their role,’’ he said.

“I’ll have to make adjustments (going from the AFL to SFNL). My expectations will have to drop a little. I still think the basics of football are similar, irrespective of the level. You’ve got to be able to pick the ball up off the ground, handball or kick it to a teammate, win your one-on-ones when they present. Those fundamentals will never change.’’

New Port Melbourne Colts president Stephen Duvnjak said he was excited Gilbee had committed to the club to “join us in the hunt to capture a Division 1 flag in the Southern league, so we can become the first club to have Division 1 flags in both Western and Southern’’.

“When I first met Lindsay I knew he would be the perfect addition to our club and the direction we are wanting to head towards, being a family man and a genuine good leader,’’ he said.

“The Port Melbourne Colts Football Club is a proud organisation with a significantly rich 61-year history, strong community ties, a great bunch of players, some ruthless supporters and most importantly it’s what I believe to be the last ‘country type’ football club in the inner city of Melbourne.’’

Full Herald Sun article: https://is.gd/TuQO2u

The Port Melbourne Colts would like to take this opportunity to thank departing Senior Coach Gareth Daley who we will farewell and acknowledge at the Clubs 2018 Presentation night, October 20 at the Pier Hotel in Port Melbourne. Gareth took on the Senior Coaching role mid-season of 2016 and has put in a tremendous amount of work for the club that often goes unrewarded, and we want to acknowledge his commitment to the Colts and wish him best for the future.

Upcoming events:

LEAGUE B&F: October 5, 6pm Sandown Greyhound Function Centre; tickets through the league.

VOTE COUNT: October 14 (next Sunday) at 12pm-1/1.30pm, Colonial Brewery in Port Melbourne. Free event, all welcome whilst rounds 1-12 are read out for Seniors & Reserves over a casual Sunday lunch and beer.

*Port Colts Fillies will have their B&F awarded at Vote count.

PRESENTATION NIGHT: October 20 at 7.30pm, The Pier Port Melbourne, tickets must be pre-purchased via team app or on this link: https://is.gd/LwmeU3 AGM: TBA Late October

MEET THE NEW COACHING GROUP & PRESEASON PLAN : TBA Early November

PRESEASON: TBA Mid-November

Again congratulations and best of luck to Lindsay, and thank-you to the selection panel and all involved in securing our new Senior Coach for 2019.

To all members, supporters and players, jump on board as a player sponsor and/or member for 2019, memberships will be released during November so stay tuned!

GO COLTS