NT Top Sports Coach 2025: Meet nominees, vote now
From army veterans guiding at-risk youth to grassroots volunteers reshaping club culture, 25 of the best have been nominated for the honour of the NT’s best coach of 2025. VOTE NOW.
Territorians have nominated 25 of the most inspiring coaches from their communities, including premiership winners and volunteers that have given all for their club juniors.
It’s been another huge year in Northern Territory sport and now it’s time to dedicate those who have given up so much of their time to ensure those under their charge get the best out of what they do.
Now with nominations done it’s your turn to vote for who you think has been the best Territory coach of 2025.
Check out all the nominees and vote in the poll below.
MEET THE NOMINEES
ASTRO RODRIGUES (Lukphinong Muay Thai)
Astro Rodrigues is more than a coach — he is a mentor, leader, and life-changer in the Northern Territory.
As head of Lukphinong Muay Thai, Rodrigues has transformed lives, helping young people build confidence, discipline, and resilience.
For many, he’s provided a safe space and purpose during difficult times, guiding them back to self-belief and connection with their community.
The army veteran continues to serve the NT through street patrols, mentoring in schools and remote communities, and teaching life values through Muay Thai.
He created the NT Fight Series, giving local fighters pathways to compete nationally and internationally, and regularly opens his gym and home to support athletes chasing their dreams.
Rodrigues’ dedication goes beyond sport; he fosters a family-like culture at the gym, supports elite athletes, and builds opportunities for Territorians at every level.
LEON CLEAL (Darwin Brothers RLFC)
Leon Cleal is a standout coach in NT rugby league, excelling in leadership, player development, and community engagement.
As Brothers Rugby League Club coaching co-ordinator, he led all senior teams to premierships and two junior teams to titles — the most by any club — while personally coaching U6s until a permanent coach was found.
Beyond the club, he coaches the NT Women’s team, mentored U17 Titans Boys, and develops coaches across the NRLNT.
Cleal also organised NT Rugby League’s first international trip, taking the NT Titans Women to 3rd place at the NRL Vegas 9s.
RONNIE MAREKO (Darwin Brothers RLFC/Darwin Dragons RUC)
Mareko has had a long involvement in junior and senior development with both the Brothers Rugby League and Darwin Dragons Rugby Union clubs.
His recent success includes coaching the Brothers women’s team to four consecutive premierships with five titles from six grand final appearances since 2020.
Mareko is incredibly passionate about junior development and mentoring new coaches in both rugby codes.
And his team’s success is in no small part a testament to his ability to connect with each and every player, who respect him as both a coach and mentor.
MICHELLE CADEN (Hockey NT)
Hockey NT technical director Caden has been pivotal in rebuilding Territory pathways and revitalising the Stingers.
In 2025, she coached four junior state teams, led the Stingers women in their first Malaysian campaign, and secured a home series win against Indonesia.
A pioneering female leader, Caden is part of the Hockey Australia National Pathway Program and has strengthened ties with Hockey WA, supporting the WA Stars team in the Gryphon Cup.
Her dedication to player development, leadership and growing hockey in the NT continues to build that foundation into the future.
SHANNON RUSCA (Southern Districts FC)
Born-and-bred Territorian Rusca has dedicated over 12 years to coaching the Crocs, leading the senior men to another premiership and their fifth grand final under his guidance.
Beyond on-field success, he has focused on developing juniors, addressing gaps in core skills and fundamentals.
As NT representative coach, he mentors athletes in the NT Thunder High Performance Program, while simultaneously coaching the Men’s Premier League and U15 boys and overseeing junior coaching at Southern Districts.
Rusca’s leadership and commitment have elevated player skills, fostered future leaders, and made a lasting impact on the Territory’s football community.
JOSH HALL (University Pirates RUFC)
Josh “Tonga” Hall has become the driving force behind the Pirates, transforming last season’s winless side into an undefeated outfit with three rounds before finals.
A long-serving player turned coach, he pours countless hours into developing athletes of all abilities while balancing a young family.
Hall’s respectful, inclusive approach has united newcomers and veterans, building a tight-knit, motivated group.
His leadership, high standards and genuine care for his players have fostered a positive culture that extends beyond the field.
Asking for nothing in return, Hall simply gives back to the club he loves.
STEPHEN VERSTEEGH (Nightcliff Tigers HC)
Stephen Versteegh has led a remarkable resurgence in the Women’s Territory Premier League, stepping up from assistant to head coach in 2025 and driving the team from fifth place to its first Grand Final in 16 years.
His leadership has produced both on-field success and significant representative honours, with eight players selected for the Territory Stingers squad and competing in the Festival of Hockey.
Versteegh has built a strong culture of inclusion, growth and mentorship, empowering senior athletes to guide younger players and keeping the whole group engaged.
MARK CHADWICK (Banks Bulldogs FC)
Mark Chadwick has revitalised the Banks Bulldogs junior girls’ program, transforming it from low numbers and limited pathways into a thriving, competitive squad.
He built key partnerships with Marrara Christian College to create a sustainable talent pipeline and fostered an inclusive, engaging environment for players of all abilities.
Integrating training with senior athletes accelerated development and strengthened club culture. Participation has grown to 30 players, culminating in a Division B Grand Final win.
He prioritises confidence, enjoyment and long-term opportunities and has inspired young athletes and built lasting pathways for female footballers.
BEN ELLIS (West Football Club Alice Springs)
Ben Ellis has transformed West Alice Springs with his passion, patience and genuine care for every player.
This season, he has built more than a football team — he’s created a connected, supportive group of young men who play for each other and the club.
Ellis brings out the best in athletes of all backgrounds, leading with honesty, respect and a people-first approach.
He’s the first to arrive, the last to leave, and constantly invests time in his players on and off the field. His influence has shaped a positive, proud club culture.
DAMIEN SEUBERT (Nightcliff Dragons RLFC)
Damien ‘Damo’ Seubert led the Nightcliff Dragons U14 Boys to a remarkable 2025 premiership in his first year coaching the age group.
He built a culture of discipline, unity, and respect that transformed the team from Round 1 through to Grand Final glory.
When faced with the undefeated Litchfield Bears, Seubert’s calm leadership and belief inspired one of the season’s biggest upsets, with the Dragons winning 22–14.
Known for his inclusive approach, strong communication, and focus on both skill and character development, heconsistently brings out the best in every player. His impact extends far beyond results.
IAN REES (Ansett BC)
Ian Rees is a dedicated coach at Ansett Basketball Club, leading five teams from U11 to U16 while also coaching an U9 football team at Waratah’s.
Renowned for his ability to develop skills and build confidence in young athletes, Rees goes above and beyond to support both players and fellow coaches.
He mentors new coaches, shares knowledge, and ensures training meets age-appropriate development needs.
Always willing to step in when others are unavailable, Rees commitment strengthens the club’s community and fosters growth across multiple sports.
TEUILA TE AHO (Nightcliff Tigers NC)
Teuila Te Aho is a highly skilled and respected coach and mentor across Darwin and the Top End, known for her expertise, communication, and dedication.
In 2025, she led the Junior Netball Darwin Academy Squad, Darwin Netball Association representative teams, and the NT School of Sport Education U12 team to the School Sports Australia competition in Victoria.
An experienced selector and administrator, Te Aho also organised Nightcliff Netball Club’s first-ever Indigenous teams for the Netball NT Indigenous Carnival, managing uniforms, sponsorship, and coaching.
Her countless hours fostering junior netball development make her a standout Northern Territory coach and role model.
SAM RIOLI (Tracy Village Jets BC)
Sam Rioli delivered an exceptional season as head coach of the TV Jets U14 Girls, leading them to a 2025 DBA Challenge Premiership and currently guiding them into the Championship finals.
Despite entering as underdogs, her focus, composure and leadership inspired the team to overcome the odds and claim the title.
Off the court, Sam is a trailblazer for women and girls in Territory basketball, driving programs like Hoops 4 Health and She Hoops, and fostering confidence, connection and pathways for young athletes.
Her patience, skill development and genuine care make her a standout coach and role model.
JOHNNY DUGGAN (Katherine Raiders RLC)
Johnny Duggan is Katherine’s junior rugby league powerhouse, coaching the Raiders’ U9s with unmatched passion and dedication.
A Raiders junior himself, Johnny turns up early and stays late, setting up drills, running training, managing fundraisers and even scrubbing jerseys to ensure his players look and feel like champions.
Over 30 years, he has built premiership-winning teams, shaped young athletes, and kept the club running with equal parts grit and heart.
He is loved by his players and indispensable to the club, Johnny’s commitment, energy and influence make him a true “deadset icon” icon of Katherine rugby league.
CHUCK NORRIS (Palmerston Raiders RLFC)
In his first year coaching seniors, Chuck Norris has made an immediate and remarkable impact as part of a season where he also played his 300th game.
Known for his leadership, communication, and genuine care he quickly earned respect and built strong connections with his players while fostering a positive team culture.
His sessions are organised, engaging, and focused on developing every player’s potential.
For a first-year senior coach to lead, play, and inspire at this level is exceptional, in a season where he was also recognised with life membership.
JOSHUA SMITH (Razzle Storm BC/Wanderers FC)
Josh Smith has made a significant impact in Northern Territory sport through his dedication, leadership and commitment to developing young athletes across football and basketball.
As U17 boys coach for Wanderers Football Club, he has helped players build skills, confidence and team culture.
In basketball, he serves as assistant coach for Razzle League Men, guiding the team to their first finals in six years, and supported the U16 NT boys in Bendigo.
Smith also coaches the U12 Darwin School Sport team, introducing young players to high-level competition. Balancing family life, he exemplifies commitment and community spirit.
NOOK MANSELL(Wanderers FC)
Nook Mansell, coach of the U13 boys at Wanderers Football Club, is a dedicated life member who has spent years giving back through coaching and developing the club’s next generation.
Under his guidance, juniors are not only improving their football skills but also growing as individuals.
Mansell’s commitment to nurturing both talent and character has made a lasting impact on players and the club.
BRENTON MARSCHKE (Swampdogs RUC)
Brenton Marschke is a standout coach in Northern Territory rugby, known for bringing out the best in every player, regardless of age or experience.
Leading with calm confidence, he provides clear direction while making every athlete feel valued.
His players thrive under his guidance, developing skills and belief, while he champions women in league and sets high standards for respect and teamwork.
Marschke has built a culture of accountability, fun, and pride that has lifted all three teams.
As a club committee member, he also played a key role in returning the Men’s A-grade team to the Darwin Rugby Union competition.
ROBERT HALE (Banks Bulldogs FC)
Robert Hale has guided Banks Football Club to success over the past two years, steering the former TEAFA powerhouse to NTFL Reserves success.
Known for his dedication to player welfare, Hale creates an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome while creating success.
He works closely with juniors and senior players alike, earning respect from all who cross his path.
Hale’s leadership has not only improved on-field performance but also strengthened club culture, fostering a sense of community, support and belonging.
CALEB BURKE (Palmerston Crocs RUC)
Caleb Burke is a well respected junior coach at the Crocs who brings knowledge, structure and discipline while earning the respect of players and parents alike.
He excels at connecting with children, confidently leading over 20 energetic pre-teens with patience, authority, and ease.
With more than a decade of experience, Burke consistently invests his time, energy, and heart into developing the next generation of athletes.
His reliability, dedication, and ability to foster both skill and character make him a deserving nominee.
ANDREW ROCK (Nightcliff Tigers FC)
The Nightcliff women’s head coach manages more than 90 players with care, empathy and dedication.
He is known to go above and beyond for every athlete, regardless of ability, fostering a strong, connected community of empowered women.
Beyond coaching, Rock volunteers across the program, from umpiring junior games to water running and canteen duties, showing his commitment to the club and the sport.
A passionate advocate for women’s football in the broader community, his consistent support, leadership, and genuine investment in players’ growth both on and off the field.
WAYNE JOHNSON (Darwin Dragons RUC)
Wayne Johnson is a true stalwart of the Darwin Dragons and the definition of a one-club man.
A life member with 35 years at the Dragons, Johnson has been instrumental in shaping the club’s culture and success.
Now in his fourth consecutive season coaching the senior women’s team, he continues to pour countless hours into training, development, and support for his players.
His commitment, consistency, and passion have made him one of the most respected figures in Territory rugby. Johnson’s longstanding dedication and impact on generations of Dragons athletes.
JO MERCIECA (Razzle Storm BC/Territory High Performance Teams/Samoa)
Jo Mercieca is one of the Territory’s most dedicated grassroots coaches, consistently going above and beyond for her athletes and her sport.
She coaches multiple teams, mentors emerging coaches, and invests countless extra hours helping young players build their skills and push for representative selection.
Mercieca’s ability to connect with kids, her positive leadership, and her genuine care make her an outstanding role model.
Her passion has even inspired her own family to join the coaching ranks.
Committed, supportive and deeply influential across junior pathways, Mercieca’s impact is felt throughout the community.
MONIQUE GRUBB (Elemental Gymnastics)
Monique Grubb is a long-serving, passionate coach who continues to bring out the best in every young athlete she works with.
Her experience, patience, and genuine care shine through in every session, creating an environment where every child feels welcome, valued, and supported.
Monique’s strength lies not just in her sporting knowledge, but in her ability to connect with athletes as individuals.
For children with additional needs, her empathy and encouragement make a life-changing difference.
Together with a dedicated coaching team, including her daughter, Monique helps drive a truly inclusive club culture.
AARON FAIRWEATHER (Palmerston Raiders RLC)
Aaron Fairweather has spent three seasons shaping the Raiders U9 Black into one of the Territory’s most inclusive and supportive junior teams.
Known for his patience, empathy, and leadership, Fairweather consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every player feels valued – especially those with additional needs.
He adapts his coaching style, celebrates individual strengths, and builds confidence on and off the field.
Parents praise his ability to foster resilience, teamwork, and genuine belonging at an age when many kids struggle to fit in.
Nominations open: Who is the Northern Territory’s top coach of 2025?
It’s been another incredible year for sport in the Northern Territory, and behind every great team, there’s a coach volunteering their time, passion and expertise to help athletes shine.
Whether they’ve been leading teams for decades or are just starting out, coach U5s or senior squads, and come from the Top End, the Red Centre or anywhere in between, we want to recognise these dedicated individuals who make sport in the Territory possible.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 NT Top Sports Coach Award, celebrating the Territory’s most inspiring and committed coaches across all levels and disciplines.
If you know someone who goes above and beyond for their players and community, now’s the time to put their name forward.
Last year Matthew McNab, founder of FC23 Football Academy took out the title.
A lifelong football enthusiast and former premier league player, McNab turned his passion into inspiring over 80 young players.
His academy focuses on motivating kids to enjoy and love the game beyond club competition.
“It’s unbelievable to be recognised like this, anyone who is giving up their time voluntary or paid to invest in the kids future through sport should be appreciated,” McNab said.
“For people to have voted for me is super special and it’s a great feeling, it just motivates me to keep going.
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Originally published as NT Top Sports Coach 2025: Meet nominees, vote now
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