Sport
21 August, 2025
Middleton appointed
WOORNDOO Mortlake has appointed Jai Middleton as senior football coach for the 2026 season, replacing Isaac Templeton who has stood down after three seasons in the role.
Joining Middleton as assistant coach will be Tom Ludeman.
“Jai has a pretty good footy background, we were impressed with him in his first year at the club this season,” Woorndoo Mortlake president Shane Jubb said.
“He’s a really good fit as we look to bring in some youth and rebuild our senior program.”
Ludeman had an injury interrupted first year at the Tigers in 2025, managing just two games.
“Tom is a great player and a smart football person, we were keen to get him in a role moving forward too.”
With both relatively new to the Tigers, Jubb was excited for the fresh ideas the duo would bring.
“They are both on the same page with how they are approaching next year, it’s great to get outside ideas into the club.”
Work has begun on shaping the Tigers list for 2026.
“It was good to get the appointments done and announced early and get into recruiting for next year.”
Jubb added the club was in good shape going forward.
“Getting under 16.5s back this year was massive, it means more people around the club and a better atmosphere.
“Our under 12 football numbers are strong too so things are looking really positive.”
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