St Mary’s will elevate playing assistant coach Ryan Pendlebury to co-coach in 2027.
The Saints have confirmed tonight that Pendlebury, who is also an assistant coach with Geelong’s AFLW program, will share the role with Luke Rayner following Ben Boseley’s decision to step down at the end of the season.
Pendlebury, who played more than 100 VFL games, has previously coached Euroa in the strong Goulburn Valley League.
Before joining the Cats, Pendlebury was an assistant with AFLW powerhouse North Melbourne,
“We are very happy to have Ryan take on the co-coaching role in 2027,” president Sally Flynn KC said.
“He is already well respected by our senior playing group for his leadership and fantastic football brain.
“We believe he will work exceptionally well alongside Luke Rayner.
“The two bring different strengths and experiences to the role, and we are excited about what they can achieve together.”
Pendlebury, the younger brother of AFL games record-holder Scott, arrived at St Mary’s ahead of the 2025 season, playing a key role in the Saints’ defensive unit as it claimed last year’s GFNL premiership.
Boseley, who has been with the Saints since last season, indicated last month that he would be stepping down.
X: @krockfootball
