United to open season without Moody

NBL1 Women’s head coach Megan Moody will take a medical-related leave of absence for the start of the 2026 season as she undergoes preventative surgery for breast cancer.

Following medical advice, Moody confirmed on Wednesday she will step away from the role.

“For the start of the 2026 NBL1 season, I will be absent from my role as head coach of the Geelong United Women’s team while I undergo a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy,” she said.

“After my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 38, I have been closely monitored by my GP and breast specialist for the past three years. Now at 42, and after careful medical advice, I’ve chosen to take this preventative step for my long-term health.”

Assistant coach Simon Nicholson will lead the side in Moody’s absence. Nicholson, the club’s coach and athlete development manager, is also the interim head coach for Geelong’s youth league girls team.

“I have complete confidence the program will continue to move forward in a really positive way,” Moody said.

Geelong United confirmed Moody will remain involved behind the scenes during her recovery and expressed full support for her decision.

“We fully support [Moody] during this period and look forward to welcoming her back to the program once she is ready to return,” the club said.

“We’re incredibly proud of our women’s program and have full confidence in the group as they head into the NBL1 South season.”

In her first season as head coach in 2025, Moody led Geelong to an undefeated home-and-away season before falling agonisingly short of a championship.

Her absence comes as Geelong prepares for its season opener at the Geelong Arena next weekend against Kilsyth. The clash will tip off at 5pm on Saturday 28 March.