The Murray Bombers goal attack has her greatest opportunity as a netball coach yet when she takes the reins as head coach of Victoria’s 17-and-under state team.
The chance arises after Lees was appointed assistant coach of the state’s under-19s in 2024.
Lees has also had extensive involvement in the Netball Victoria Talent Pathway and is regarded as a top development coach.
Although she won’t be staking her claim on the court as she does for her Goulburn Valley Netball League side, Lees’ strong leadership qualities won’t be disregarded on the sidelines when the 2026 National Netball Championships take place in April.
Selected nine months out from the tournament as coach, Lees has ample time to prepare and assemble Victoria’s strongest 17-and-under squad as selection trials take place in the coming months.
In 2024, Lees’ under-19s side recorded five wins and two losses in the tournament, while the 17-and-under side finished one better with a record of 6-1.
However, the under-19s clawed their way through to the grand final to earn silver, while the 17-and-unders ultimately claimed bronze following their finals series.
Netball Victoria’s general manager of high performance and pathways Sharelle McMahon said Lees’ promotion to head coach was a thrilling development for her coaching career.
“We’re excited to see Belinda step into the 17-and-under head coach role following her years of dedicated service to our programs,” McMahon said.
Decorated Victorian Netball League coach Adrian “AJ” Ballantyne and former Melbourne Vixen Kath Knott will coach and assistant coach the under-19 team in 2026, as well as apprentice assistant coach Eliza Allen.
Monique Lenehan-Moustafa and Courtney McLean will aid Lees on the sideline as assistant and apprentice assistant coach.
“This group embodies the values of Victorian netball and we’re confident they’ll provide our athletes with the environment they need to perform and thrive,” McMahon said.
5°C