McBean to lead the Bays 2026 charge

Liam McBean will again take the reins of the Bays’ senior playing group in season 2026, commencing his ninth season in the black and gold and his third as captain.

“I’m honoured to lead Glenelg for a third year and feel privileged to have the support of the club as we move into an exciting new era. 2026 will be different in terms of key personnel changes; however, we’re very bullish about what we can achieve.”

Head Coach Matt Clarke announced the leadership group to the senior squad, staff and sponsors at last week’s 2026 Season Launch, reinforcing the club’s confidence in both the playing group and its leaders.

Clarke said, “When I met everyone at the club, it was great — but the real kicker was when I met these four. That was the tick for me.”

McBean will be supported by premiership stars and vice-captain Matt Allen, alongside Jonty Scharenberg and Alex Martini.

That was the tick for me.

Matt Clarke confirms Glenelg's leaders helped seal the deal.

“Our leadership group has maintained stability, with Matt Allen remaining as vice-captain, while Jonty Scharenberg and Alex Martini round out the group,” McBean said.

“All three have grown significantly in their roles and will be critical in supporting the new wave of talent developing across the club.

“All four have already made huge contributions to the Glenelg Football Club, establishing a culture of high performance balanced with genuine care for everyone within our club and the broader Bay community.”

Clarke echoed those sentiments, adding, “Their collective on-field and off-field presence will be critical in assisting the transition of new players into our senior side as we strive to compete at the highest level once again this season.”

The Bays’ senior playing group now turns its attention to final preparations ahead of next week’s Round 1 clash at Alberton.