Chef opens playbook as Old Collegians name new co-coach
Matt Dempsey owned award-winning one and two-hat restaurants. Now he takes his first senior coaching role with Old Collegians.
Matt Dempsey has taken his first senior coaching role with Warrnambool and District League side Old Collegians for the 2027 season. The 47-year-old Port Fairy restaurateur owned one and two-hat restaurants including Gladioli in Inverleigh and Tulip in Geelong.
Dempsey will work alongside playing coach Joe McKinnon. Dempsey replaces co-coach Ben van de Camp after nine years as an assistant coach.
This includes time at Koroit where he led under-18s. Conlan's Wine Store will close on training and match nights to support his football commitment.
Dempsey returned to sport in his mid-30s after nearly two decades in hospitality. He realized how much he missed being involved in football.
- 47
- Dempsey age
- Nine
- Assistant coach years
- Two seasons
- Koroit under-18s coaching
- Old Collegians, 2027 season
- Co-coach role
Why it mattersDempsey's appointment shows grassroots football can get knowledge from outside sport. It strengthens coaching depth with mature second careers.
AustraliaWarrnambool football community gains a senior coach who brings the discipline of fine dining to local Australian Rules coaching.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 9 h ago
