Sebastopol names Shane Snibson and Ryan Birthisel as co-coaches
Sebastopol replaces Tony Lockyer with co-coaches Shane Snibson, returning for his second stint, and Ryan Birthisel.
Sebastopol has moved to a co-coaching structure for the 2027 Ballarat Football Netball League season after watching Tony Lockyer carry the workload of being both player and coach. Shane Snibson, who previously steered the Burra through 2015 to 2017, returns for a second spell.
Ryan Birthisel, a first-time leader, missed the entire 2026 season with a serious knee injury and is unlikely to play next year either. Birthisel immersed himself in the club's off-field setup during his recovery.
Director of football John Lyon said the club had other applicants but chose dual coaching to share the load. "That was becoming too big for one person," he said.
Snibson can balance work and family commitments while Birthisel can connect with younger players. The club has already recruited Jackson McLachlan from WA's Swan Districts.
The Burra reached this year's grand final.
- 2015 to 2017
- Snibson's prior tenure
- entire 2026 season
- Birthisel's injury absence
- Jackson McLachlan from Swan Districts
- New recruit
Why it mattersCo-coaching spreads responsibility so returning coach Snibson can focus on strategy while Birthisel develops talent, a model smaller clubs need to attract capable leaders.
AustraliaVictorian country football clubs are experimenting with dual coaching to share workload and develop younger coaches, a trend that could reshape club structures across regional leagues.
