MPFNL: What to expect from a James Hallahan-led Sorrento in 2025

Newly appointed Sorrento coach James Hallahan has always been a “leave no stone unturned” kind of person and he intends to take the same approach into coaching.

James Hallahan celebrates a goal for Sorrento. Picture: Andy Brownbill

James Hallahan says he’ll take “bits and pieces” from all of his coaches as he launches his own coaching career at Sorrento.

“I can reel them off,” he says, referring to the nine coaches he’s played under in the past 18 years.

There was Graeme Yeats at the Stingrays, Brett Lovett, Andy Lovell and Simon McPhee at Sandringham in the VFL and at Sorrento, Troy Schwarze, Nick Claringbold, Luke Tapscott, Nick Jewell and Leigh Poholke.

They all left an impression on Hallahan, who will be a playing-coach at Sorrento in 2025.

He’s been appointed for two years, replacing great mate Leigh Poholke.

Flashback to 2017: Sorrento co-captains James Hallahan and Luke Tapscott. Picture: AAP/ Chris Eastman

Hallahan will go into coaching with his own firm views on how he intends to lead the way, bringing his own determined style to the job.

As a player, Hallahan has always been a “leave no stone unturned” kind of guy and that will underpin his coaching style.

“I made sure I did all the work so when I got to Saturday there were no excuses in the way I played,” he says.

Hallahan says he will set expectations early and his players will know what’s required.

“A lot of that will come down to really high standards, really high accountability and setting expectations early,’’ he said.

“But a super high communication level. I think that’s what’s needed at this level now.”

James Hallahan (right) gets his kick for Sandringham.

2014: James Hallahan consoles Crib Point’s Brad Arnold. Picture: Richard Serong

Hallahan cares deeply about Sorrento footy club — he grew up there — and that’s why he took the coaching role.

He played juniors at the club, captained the club (to premiership success) and has experienced the ups, downs and everything in between.

“If there’s ever a time there needs to be a good strong Sorrento person to take charge, it’s now,” he said.

“Look, the job wasn’t handed to me, I went through a pretty big process, with some other candidates.

“And I said all along there are two reasons I’m applying, one is to make sure there is a strong process going on and the other one is to make sure if I don’t get the job I’m really comfortable that a really strong person takes over.”

Hallahan wants to leave a lasting legacy as Sorrento coach.

“I just really want to get Sorrento back to that place of where it’s that formidable team and you’ve got that Sorrento culture,” he said.

He recognises the club’s future is with its young players.

“There will be a lot of effort going into developing them, not just into senior footballers but good people as well,” he said.