Brittany Holding tops Burnett’s best coach poll

A women’s A-grade team leader has been voted Burnett’s best coach in a nailbiting finish between three football experts.

Brittany Holding with loyal supporter Kate Templeman.

It was a nailbiting finish for Burnett’s best coach, with three of the region’s most inspiring community leaders vying for the top spot.

Out of 32 remarkable finalists, Brittany Holding, the Wondai Women’s A-grade coach, came out on top, securing 20 per cent of the vote from this publication’s readers.

Brendan Crawford from the Kingaroy Touch Association followed closely with 18 per cent, while Matty Gayndah from the Gladiators Football Club claimed third place with 17 per cent.

Receiving the community recognition was a proud moment for Ms Holding.

“I feel very proud and supported. It feels great to receive recognition from the wider community for what is mostly a thankless job,” Ms Holding said.

At 27, Ms Holding’s life has always revolved around rugby league, a passion passed down from her parents.

Her father, Scott Holding, is a Wondai Club Life member and the current men’s A-grade coach, while her mother, Teresa Holding, has been a dedicated club volunteer since she was 17.

Scott and Brittany Holding in 1998 after Mr Holding won a grand final for Wondai.

Both parents are gold pass holders at the Wondai Club, where their love for each other and the sport began.

“My family are born and bred here,” Ms Holding said.

“Mum being from Wondai and Dad just out of town on a farm at Cloyna, I’ve lived here on the Cloyna farm all my life.”

Her journey into coaching began in 2022 when she was asked to help revive rugby league in the area, which led her to become the area’s female co-ordinator and, eventually, she found herself coaching.

“I coached in 2022, captain and coached in 2023, and have now been a player and a coach for 2024,” Ms Holding said.

Brittany Holding playing round one in Eidsvold v Bundaberg.

She said the most rewarding part of coaching was witnessing player growth and development.

“Watching players hit their goals, make selection for rep teams, and receive accolades is why I coach,” she said.

Ms Holding said her playing group is built around integrity, respect and loyalty, which she said are “non-negotiable” values.

“We are a family-friendly team and are very involved with club and community events as well as doing a lot of social events together that aren’t football related,” she said.

“Forming genuine friendships outside of footy is the key.”

Pre-season team building activity, competing at the Mundubbera 7s cricket carnival.

However, Brittany’s coaching journey had not been without challenges in what was still a male-dominated sport.

“As a female in this sport, I have had to prove myself over and over again … unfortunately this game still has miles to go with recognising and valuing female players, coaches and extended staff,” she said.

A standout moment in Brittany’s coaching career was the 2023 footy season where she saw their first ever Wondai female team established with their under 16 and women’s teams.

“Both finished the season winning the minor premiership, both qualifying for the grand final, then going on to win both grand finals at their home grounds. It was a fairytale season for both squads and will never be topped,” she said.

Team photo after winning their fixture against Cherbourg, sealing the minor premiership.

Ms Holding also had advice for anyone wanting to pursue coaching

“Don’t ever doubt yourself and have confidence. Establish your core values and non-negotiable expectations early on,” she said.

“Make sure you have a strong support network and be prepared to stand your ground and stand up for your players.”

Looking ahead, Ms Holding said she was proud of her achievements and looked forward to more opportunities.

“I have done all I can for female rugby league in this area … I look forward to enjoying the off-season and am eager to regroup in January for what will be a huge year at a new club, in a new area,” she said.

Originally published as Brittany Holding tops Burnett’s best coach poll