‘Sky’s the limit’ for Swans: Baker to step down at end of season

Sitting atop the BFNL ladder, Ballarat coach Ash Baker says the Swans have ‘unfinished business’ despite informing the club of his decision to step away from coaching at the end of the season.

Baker informed the senior playing group of his decision not to seek reappointment at training on Tuesday evening 30 June.

A six-time best and fairest winner during his distinguished playing career in red and white, Baker is in his second stint in the Swans’ top job.

He previously coached the the senior team from 2013-2016 – the first two as a playing coach and the last two as non-playing – before returning in 2025.

After a sixth-place finish last season, the Swans are flying high in top spot on the ladder at 11-2, following a 106-point win over Bacchus Marsh in round 11.

Together with second-placed Sebastopol (also 11-2), the top pair sit a win clear of reigning premier Darley and North Ballarat, with Melton, Sunbury and Bacchus Marsh a further three wins back in the pack.

Outright top spot will be decided when the Swans and Burra clash at Marty Busch Reserve in round 12 on 11 July.

Baker said his decision had been made for family reasons, with he and his wife Lisa planning to spend more time together with their three children next year, including some long-considered travel.

“Coaching at this level requires an enormous commitment if you’re going to do the role properly and continue to drive success,” Baker said.

“That certainly doesn’t mean I’m taking my foot off the pedal this season. We’ve got some unfinished business.

“We’re currently in a strong position, but we know nothing has been achieved yet.

“Our focus is on qualifying well for finals and giving ourselves every opportunity to play deep into September.”

A stellar season for the Swans so far has been built collectively on some astute recruiting which netted the likes of former AFL talent Brad Crouch and Alex Keath, former Central Highland league standout Patrick

Graham, key forward Tyson Richard and midfielder Thomas Simpson, and the flourishing of key existing young talent.

Their two losses have been by just 15 points against Sebastopol in round two and Darley by five points in round 9.

While ecstatic with the Swans’ progress so far in 2026, more importantly, Baker said the playing group had an exciting future ahead.

“This is an amazing group of young men to coach. The sky is the limit for what this group can achieve over the coming years,” he said.

“Our club is in a really strong position both on and off the field, and it’s a place that I genuinely love.

“I’ll be putting everything I’ve got into helping this group reach its potential for the rest of the season.”

Following Sebastopol, the Swans’ run home includes Lake Wendouree (away), Melton (home), East Point (away), Redan (home), Darley (home) and Sunbury (away).

Baker’s connection with the Ballarat Football Netball Club spans decades, including over 200 games as a player, six seasons as captain, a record six Greenfield Trophies (senior best & fairest.

Beyond the senior coaching role, the Baker family remains deeply embedded within the club community.

Their three children are actively involved across the club’s junior football and netball programs, with Lisa serving in roles as a coach and team manager of two of the club’s junior netball sides, and Ash also coaching an under-10 football team.

Swans senior men’s football director Karl Drever praised Baker’s contribution and the impact he continues to have across the entire senior football program.

“Ash is incredibly well connected with our players and coaching group, and he’s coaching exceptionally well,” Drever said.

“That’s translating into the performances we’re seeing across all three senior grades.

“While we’re naturally disappointed Ash won’t be continuing in the senior role beyond this season, we completely understand and respect the decision he and Lisa have made for their family.

“Ash has served this football club with incredible distinction as a player and coach over many years.

“He’s one of the highest quality people you’ll meet and someone who genuinely cares about this club and everyone involved in it.”

Drever said the search for a new senior coach would start immediately, with expressions of interest welcomed.

“With Ash’s decision now confirmed, the process of appointing our Senior Men’s Coach for the 2027 season has already commenced.”

Those interested in discussing the role or seeking further information are encouraged contact Karl Drever via email at [email protected] or on 0438 397 544.