VSDCA: Brownlow medallist, former first-class cricketer Peter Bedford to coach Donvale in 2023-24

An Australian sporting great has returned to the helm at a Subbies club. Latest here.

SUBBIES outfit Donvale has been buoyed by the return of an Australian sporting great as its coach for 2023-24.

None other than Brownlow medallist and former first-class cricketer Peter Bedford will lead the Lions’ coaching panel next season, returning to the post he held with distinction in the past few years.

The ex-South Melbourne VFL star takes over from outgoing coach Saliya Ahangama, with the former Sri Lankan Test cricketer standing down from his role last month to focus on Donvale’s junior development.

Done deal: Peter Bedford (left) returns to the head coaching role he held with Donvale last decade. Pictured with Donvale life member and club patron Richard Ellis (middle) and club president Warren McAlpin (right). Picture: Supplied

Bedford represented Victoria on 39 occasions as a batsman and leg-spinner, also carving out 186 games for the Swans and Carlton in the then-VFL from 1968-78, collecting five best-and-fairests at South alongside the 1970 Brownlow Medal.

He topped the Swans’ goalkicking three times, was captain for four seasons and represented Victoria in 13 matches.

Peter Bedford is a member of South Melbourne/Sydney’s Team of the Century and the Australian Football Hall of Fame.

Bedford led Donvale to the finals in his last stint as coach, to go with a Wright Shield premiership and a Dunstan Shield grand final appearance in the Eastern Cricket Association.

Despite his exploits with the Sherrin as a rover, the club says cricket remains Bedford’s “first love”, with president Warren McAlpin lauding his return to the helm.

Donvale finished its second VSDCA campaign in 13th spot with five wins in the East-West group – with Bedford “instrumental” in its move from the ECA according to the club.

“We are thrilled to have Pete back as our head coach for our third season at this improved level of cricket in the Sub-District Cricket Association,” McAlpin said.

“In my opinion Peter is a living legend of Australian sport having played both cricket and football for Victoria but above all he is a wonderful man and a great communicator, who is loved at Donvale.

“We believe that he will assist us in continuing our progress in Subbies.”

Meanwhile, the Lions remain on the hunt for a First XI captain after Blake Nikolic recently stood down due to a severe back injury.