SFNL: How new Bentleigh coach Jack Jess plans to transform the Demons in 2025

New Bentleigh coach Jack Jess is on a mission to reshape the Demons’ fortunes and believes their pursuit for top-line talent will “change our story dramatically”.

Nathan Dowsett looks up the ground. Picture: Bentleigh FNC

New Bentleigh coach Jack Jess believes bringing in “A-grade” recruits will mend the Demons’ recent struggles.

The Dees have been a permanent power of the Southern league under-19s competition but have not been able to translate it to senior success.

Bentleigh has accumulated just 10 wins across the past two seasons, winning five games in both 2023 and 2024.

Jess, who replaces coach Kristian Bardsley in 2025, says the Demons will look to add “five or six” top-line recruits to aid their younger talent.

“We’re out chasing some A-grade quality and experience to help develop our juniors but also help us win games,” he said.

“I think last year, having such a young group, it’s really hard to find the way to win in those tight games.

“There was only one game I think we got blown out by a quality side in Dingley but I think we were in at least three quarters of most games.

“Bringing in A-grade senior experienced players will help our structure and help win those close ones.

“The club is working really hard at that so it’s an extremely exciting time.

“We’re pretty confident that we’ll have five or six signatures on paper that will change our story dramatically.”

Kayne O'Brien launches at goal. Picture: Bentleigh FNC

Jess coached Navarre in the Maryborough Castlemaine District league for the past two years after he played for Redan in the Ballarat league.

He understands the Demons have been short of success since their 2013 premiership but won’t apologise for his lofty expectations.

“I think the club can see the potential there, now it’s just converting that potential into quality footballers,” he said.

“The club is very understanding of where we’re at, what our goals are and we’re not going to shy away from that.

“We’re aiming high, we’re here to win premierships and we’re not going to apologise for that, that’s everyone’s aim.

“We’ve got to develop at the same time but I don’t see why we can’t compete for a premiership in 2025.

“Some might say it’s a big call but if you don’t dream big, you’ll never succeed.”

Jack Jess (right) spoils while playing for Redan in the Ballarat league.

The Demons were in the top six for points for in 2024 but conceded on average 91 points per game.

Jess linked the Dees’ scoring back to the side’s maturity and said it would be a major focus this pre-season.

“That was a big thing we’ve looked at over the last couple of weeks; when we bled last year we haemorrhaged,” he said.

“That comes with a bit of a young side wanting to go all-out attack but for us to steady in those moments, get our hands back on the footy, get some control, that will be one of our major focuses in 2025.”