Tara Murray
New coach Vince Massara wants to help Melton Phoenix grow into one of the biggest clubs in Melbourne’s west.
Massara has been appointed the Phoenix’s new men’s coach, replacing Darren Traynor, who coached the side since 2020.
“It’s a great club and it’s an exciting time to be part of it,” he said. “The club has worked hard on youth development, and that’s evident with a lot of young players getting senior minutes over the years.
“On top of that, there’s already a squad of talented players.
“It’s been great meeting the guys so far, and I’m looking forward to working together and having a successful season.”
Massara said the club was in a great position and it was one of the reasons he was attracted to the role.
He said the success of the senior side was also encouraging.
“When you consider the club’s catchment area, top-notch facilities, and the amazing people involved, there’s room for the Phoenix to position itself as one of the biggest clubs in the west,” he said. “Obviously, it’s a long process and won’t happen overnight, but the wheels are in motion, and when performances on the field are going the right way, things can move quickly.
“The senior squad was also a major selling point for me. In most years, the team from last season would have been promoted. When you fall just short like they did, it usually means everyone comes back even hungrier for success.”
Massara’s coaching background includes being part of the Western United Academy. He said he was able to work with some fantastic coaches and talented players in Melbourne’s west.
“In my day job teaching in Werribee, I see so many talented kids who just need a chance,” he said. “We’re really lucky to be part of a diverse community here in the west.
“That diversity introduces players to a variety of playing styles, perspectives, and problem-solving approaches. It brings creativity to the pitch, and you can see that in the football being played. I want to harness that at the Nix.”
Massara said he wanted to continue to build on this season heading into next year having just missed out on promotion.
He said they had a good young core that they wanted to build something special.
“Winning 51 points is usually enough to win the league or at least secure promotion, which shows just how tough state 4 is with only one team guaranteed promotion instead of two,” he said.
“Not every player gets an opportunity like this—to build something from the ground up—and it’s a credit to everyone involved in the club, especially the players themselves. We also have some veteran leadership in the side, which provides a great balance.
“Having 16, 17, and 18-year-olds contributing in a good side while learning good habits from the seniors is the dream for any club, no matter the level. That’s our aim with the younger players.”
