Dom stays on for two more

TORQUAY Football Club’s longest-tenured coach will serve for two more seasons with Dom Gleeson agreeing to a contract extension through until the end of 2024.

Gleeson’s additional two years will extend his stint to 10 years, already surpassing the club’s coaching record of six years held by Clive Brown (1965-1970).

“It’s an honour to be appointed as senior coach of this club,” Gleeson said.

“I’m excited about what lies ahead for this current group, I’m excited to see how the club fits with the promotion and relegation restructure planned by AFL Barwon and I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from the coaching group and players since being appointed in 2015.

“Along with my coaching group, we will continue building on the program we have established.”

Torquay’s senior football side continues to record impressive results across the Bellarine Football League.

Tied on points with Drysdale, the Tigers will look to consolidate top spot with another win this Saturday against Queenscliff.

If Torquay can earn the first week off during finals with a minor premiership, league pundits would likely name the yellow and black as premiership favourites, but Gleeson said all eyes were focused on the next month.

“Right now we’re planning for finals, the teams we are picking at the moment we think are our best 22 and that’s the same in the reserves,” Gleeson said.

“At the moment we’re pretty much at full strength and we’re not looking to rest anyone. We’re looking forward to playing finals and staying on top.”

Tigers president Jenny Wood emphasised the importance of Gleeson’s role at the club following the announcement of his extension.

“As a club, we want to ensure we have a quality person leading our coaching group,” Ms Wood said.

“Without a doubt Dom Gleeson is this person.

“What Dom has brought to this club over his tenure as senior coach has been extraordinary. For us, it was a simple decision to continue with Dom.

“When you talk about recruits, I’m very confident in stating Dom Gleeson has been our greatest ever recruit. He has been instrumental in leading the way and improving the culture at the club.”

At this time, Gleeson does not plan to take on a player-coach role in 2023 and 2024.Torquay Tigers football coach Dom Gleeson has agreed to a two-year extension with the club. Photo: VINNIE VAN OORSCHOT