Caroline Springs has had a surprise coaching change as it prepares for the new challenge in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division.
The Lakers announced that premiership coach Alex O’Shea had resigned from the coaching role effective immediately.
O’Shea has been part of the Lakers women’s program since the start, firstly as a player and then as a coach.
“Alex has been integral to women’s footy at the Lakers since its inception, with an enormous impact as both a player and a coach,” the Lakers said on social media.
“On the field, Alex had an incredible run, taking home four straight best and fairests, with the senior women medal named in her honour.
“She was named the WFNL (Western Football Netball League) female coach of the year on two occasions, and was involved in all senior grand finals, having won a premiership as both a player and a coach.
“She departs after an incredible undefeated year, even having a baby towards the end of the season and bouncing back for finals.
“After so much success, Alex has decided it’s time to step back and dedicate her time to being a mum. We wish her all the very best in this exciting chapter and can’t wait to see her back for a visit.”
O’Shea thanked everyone for their support on the post.
“It’s been an amazing journey. I’m so grateful and proud of everything we have built and achieved together. A fantastic club, especially for women’s football,” she said.
The club announced that Mick Gerada will step up and take on the women’s coaching role for this year.
Gerada has also been an integral part of the Lakers’ female pathway for a number of years, having been an assistant coach for the under-18.5 girls during their back-to-back run across two competitions.
“He brings with him a wealth of coaching experience at both junior and senior level and is extremely passionate about developing our women’s program and ensuring there is a concrete pathway for juniors into seniors for many years to come.”
Alex isn’t the only O’Shea who is departing the club, with her husband and men’s captain Keenan O’Shea signing with the Sunbury Lions.
Keenan had been captain for the Lakers for nine seasons. He joined the club in 2017 from St Albans and was given the captaincy in his first year at the Lakers.
Keenan missed the back part of 2025 and the grand final through injury.
“Keenan is a highly respected player, bringing a wealth of experience and ability that will perfectly complement our senior footy playing group,” the Lions said on social media.
