MPCA: Tootgarook appoints Matt Whelan as senior coach for 2025-26 season

In the face of swirling rumours and financial challenges, Tootgarook Cricket Club has turned to one of its favourite sons to lead the way.

Tootgarook has appointed a new coach.

Amid off-season uncertainty, Tootgarook has made a positive move by appointing club champion Matt Whelan as playing-coach for the 2025-26 Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association season.

The 34-year-old three-time league medallist is set to lead the club through a period of transition.

Despite rumours of financial difficulties, Whelan remains optimistic about the club’s future. “There are money issues, but nothing we can’t fix,” he said.

Whelan said the focus would shift from premiership ambitions to nurturing young talent, with players like Koby de Bruyn and Will Rudd expected to step up.

He said Toot captain Bobby Parslow was staying to continue to lead the First XI.

Parslow steered the Frogs to the semi-finals last season.

Matthew Whelan.

“We’ll still be strong enough,’’ Whelan said.

“We’ll still win games but, yeah, I think the focus won’t be to win a flag like it has been the last few years. That’s what’s put us in this position. We’ll just look at trying to promote the young kids. Teach them a few things so that when we do decide to retire, there is something there for them.’’

Whelan acknowledges the challenges ahead but sees it as “short-term pain for long-term success.”

He said Tootgarook would welcome recruits.

“You know what cricket is like these days. There’s a lot of money getting thrown around so we’re probably looking at trying to get people for free,’’ he said.

“Anyone that’s played at the club in the past and wants to come down. Or if there’s someone playing seconds at a club and wants an opportunity...’’

Tootgarook is set to hold an extraordinary general meeting on Wednesday night, seeking advice from life members to navigate this crucial period in the club’s history.

“It’s just about getting hands on deck,’’ club official and player Corey de Bruyn said.

“That’s really what we are after.’’