Football
9 April, 2026
Rams seek upward trajectory
Natimuk United’s significant progress from 2024 to 2025 positions the young team as one to watch.
As well as jumping from 11th to 7th on the ladder, a more competitive showing from round to round is something coach Jarred Combe believes is a foundation they can build off.
“2025 was a really positive step forward for us,” he said.
“Given how young and relatively inexperienced the group was, the growth we saw across the season was pleasing.
“We became more competitive week-to-week, showed resilience in tough moments, and started to build a clear identity in how we want to play.
“While there’s obviously still plenty of improvement ahead of us, the foundation we laid last year gives us real confidence moving forward.”
After an impressive first year with the Rams, Billy Taylor will be an assistant coach to Combe in 2026.
While the team has lost some young players, including Bailey Brennan and Jude Harris, they appear to have filled the gaps.
Will Kennedy and Jacob Medwell join the side from Geelong West Giants, while Henry Gould joins from Lucindale.
Combe said they will bring valuable experience and versatility to the playing group.
“We’ve brought in a small number of new faces who we think will complement what we already have,” he said.
“They add some experience, depth and flexibility across the ground, which will be important over the course of the season.
“Just as importantly, a number of our younger players are another year older and stronger, which almost feels like recruits in itself.”
A strong preseason has Combe excited about the side’s potential, and he believes increased attention to technical aspects of the game should help the side play at their best for longer throughout games.
“Our main focus has been consistency - in effort, execution and decision-making,” the coach said.
“We’ve spent a lot of time on our contest work, defensive structure, and ball movement, while also continuing to build connection within the group.
“We want to be a team that competes hard for four quarters and can sustain our game style regardless of the situation.”
The Natimuk coach said he believes a greater focus on the process rather than wins and losses will pay dividends going forward.
“Our primary goal is continued growth,” Combe said.
“We want to see clear improvement in how we play, how we compete, and how we handle pressure.
“Of course, we want that to translate into more consistent results, but we’re realistic about where we’re at in our journey.
“If we can stay true to our process, keep developing our young talent, and remain competitive each week, the outcomes will take care of themselves.”