Kingborough Lions coach Jon Fenech has capped a landmark season by being named the 2026 McDonald’s NPL Coach of the Year.
The peer-voted award is decided by the 10 NPL coaches from across Tasmania and follows a year in which Fenech guided the Lions to third place and the club’s first NPL-era trophy.
Kingborough claimed the Statewide Cup, also known as the Lakoseljac Cup, in dramatic fashion on June 8, defeating Devonport Strikers in a last-gasp final.
The victory earned the Lions a place in the Hahn Australia Cup Round of 32, where they were drawn against A-League powerhouse Melbourne Victory.
Almost 3,000 spectators packed Kitchen Centre Park for the July 26 encounter, creating one of the biggest occasions in the club’s history.
Fenech said being recognised by his coaching peers made the award particularly meaningful.
“I’m very proud and humbled,” he said.
“Being recognised by fellow coaches makes it particularly meaningful because they understand the work and challenges that go into a season.
“While it’s an individual award, it reflects the commitment of our players, staff and everyone who supports the program.”
For Fenech, lifting the Statewide Cup remains the defining moment of the season.
“Seeing the players lift the trophy and what it meant to people who have given so much to Kingborough will stay with me,” he said.
“I’ll never forget that feeling.
“Hosting Melbourne Victory was unforgettable too, but sharing that cup-winning moment with the club and its community was particularly special.”
Fenech attributed the Lions’ progress to consistent standards, a clear playing identity and the willingness of his squad to improve.
“I want us to be brave with the ball, aggressive without it and connected as a team,” he said.
“Creating an environment where players feel supported but also challenged has been important, and the group deserves credit for embracing that and working hard every week.”
Fenech highlighted captain Eli Luttmer, Nick O’Connell, Brad Lakoseljac and Owen Vedouw, along with club stalwart Greg “the whisperer” Downes, among those who contributed to the season.
He also acknowledged Alex Tatnel, who led the club’s goalkeeping department, strength and conditioning coach Samuel Rossetto, physiotherapist Bailey Ellis, program manager Cameron Ellis and staff member Toby Moss.
“The president and board have been fantastic in supporting the program,” Fenech said.
“Alongside our volunteers, sponsors and supporters, they’ve helped make this a special season.”
The Coach of the Year honour has also presented Fenech with another significant opportunity, with the Lions mentor appointed coach of the Tasmanian State team for its upcoming clash with Western Australia in Perth.
The interstate encounter will be the first State versus State clash between Tasmania and WA in Perth since 1964.
Looking further ahead, Fenech hopes Kingborough can turn its breakthrough year into sustained success, while continuing to provide opportunities for emerging players.
“I’d love to see Kingborough build on this season and consistently compete for trophies while continuing to develop players,” he said.
“Maintaining high standards, supporting all the coaches and strengthening the pathway will help make this season a foundation for sustained success.”
