Ex-AFL coach returns to Outer East ‘home’ club

A former AFL coach will be welcomed with open arms on Saturday by an Outer East league club he has a special connection with.

Upwey Tecoma senior premiers, 1994, coached by David Noble (front, centre). Picture: Facebook

They speak glowingly about him at Upwey Tecoma footy club.

Nearly 30 years ago, David Noble left an indelible mark on the Tigers when he coached the club to back-to-back premierships in the Yarra Valley Mountain Football League.

The 1993-94 flags were his first steps in his coaching career, which would eventually include two seasons as senior coach of North Melbourne.

Noble will be warmly welcomed back by the Tigers on Saturday when he will be guest speaker at Upwey Tecoma’s past players day at Chosen Ave.

Noble won consecutive club best and fairest awards at Upwey in ‘93-94.

David Noble of the Kangaroos celebrates a win with his players in 2021. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Current Upwey Tecoma coach Stuart Hill said Noble’s exploits almost 30 years ago are often spoken about at the club.

“The older guys who have been at the club for years speak so highly of him and what he did for the club and the standards he set. He put us in a better spot,’’ BHill said.

“It will be good to get him back.’’

Upwey Tecoma hosts undefeated Wandin on Saturday and Hill said his young Tigers outfit was determined to put in a strong showing.

“Any time you get a past players day you just want to make sure the way you play particularly will make them proud, too,’’ he said.

“That’s our focus and centre point this week.”

Upwey Tecoma's 1993 senior premiership team. Picture: Facebook

Upwey Tecoma is sitting in third spot on the Outer East league Premier Division ladder.

Hill said the side was progressing well.

He wants his side to be known as “workmanlike” and united.

“I’ve been really happy with the boys, they’re super coachable and all they want to do is get better. It certainly makes my job easier,’’ he said.

The Tigers have been fuelled by a raft of up and coming players this season.

Ben Matthews, first year out of U19s, has taken key back position this season and been terrific.

Midfielder Andrew Bartils, 21, has taken his game to another level and is starting to get noticed by other sides.

Jai Sheehan has also elevated his game, and is now having a significant impact at senior level.

Dan Waters has been kicking goals for the Tigers for a long time, and remains a key target up forward.

“It’s pleasing to have a key forward who presents and can actually take those contested marks and hit the scoreboard as well,’’ Hill said of Waters.

Liam Beacom is one of the better ruckmen in the comp and continues to give first use of the ball to his midfield.