Peel Thunder Football Club coach Adam Read is looking ahead with renewed optimism as he prepares his side for the 2026 Western Australian Football League (WAFL) season. After a difficult 2025 campaign that saw the team struggle to find consistency, Read is determined to extract greater performances from his players.
Aiming for Consistency
Read acknowledged that the Thunder's 2025 season fell short of expectations, with the team winning only a handful of matches. He emphasised the need for a more consistent approach across all areas of the game. "We had moments where we showed what we're capable of, but we weren't able to sustain that level week in and week out," Read said. "Our focus this pre-season has been on building a culture of accountability and ensuring that every player understands their role within the team structure."
Key Areas of Focus
The coaching staff has identified several key areas for improvement, including defensive pressure, midfield dominance, and forward-line efficiency. Read has implemented a rigorous training program designed to enhance the team's endurance and tactical awareness. "We've been working hard on our defensive structures and making sure we're harder to score against," he explained. "At the same time, we want to be more dynamic going forward and capitalise on our scoring opportunities."
Player Development
Development of young talent remains a priority for Peel Thunder, with several promising players expected to step up in 2026. Read praised the dedication of the club's emerging stars, noting that they have embraced the challenge of improving their skills. "We have a great group of young men who are hungry to learn and willing to put in the work," he said. "The future is bright for this club, and I'm excited to see how they progress."
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 season approaches, Read is confident that the Thunder can climb the ladder and become a more competitive force in the WAFL. He called on supporters to back the team as they strive for success. "We want to make our fans proud and give them a team they can believe in," Read said. "It's going to take time, but we're building something special here."
The Peel Thunder will begin their 2026 campaign in March, with a full schedule of matches against WAFL rivals. Read and his squad are determined to turn their fortunes around and establish themselves as a formidable opponent in the league.
