Sport
5 June, 2026
League launches wellbeing program
THE Hampden Football Netball League has introduced a new wellbeing program, developed by multiple Koroit premiership coach Chris McLaren.
The initiative is a holistic wellbeing support to players, coaches and officials across all clubs within the league.
Chris McLaren, former senior coach of the Koroit Football Netball Club, brings more than 20 years of experience in mentoring, wellbeing support, and mental health assistance across the western district.
He has supported countless athletes through personal challenges, crises, and high-pressure situations, and is widely respected within local sporting communities and AFL circles.
His approach is underpinned by the Lifeline Accidental Counsellor program, equipping him with an added framework to provide safe, practical, and effective support both on and off the field.
McLaren maintains strong connections across elite football programs, including personal development with the Western Bulldogs AFL Player Development and Wellbeing Manager, regular contact with the Carlton AFLW head coach focused on health and wellbeing, and ongoing mentoring relationships with both the Fremantle AFL senior assistant coach and the Geelong AFL player development and wellbeing manager.
In this role, McLaren will have a strong focus on wellbeing support and on field performance where required to assist clubs and coaches.
The program reflects the league’s strong commitment to athlete welfare, wellbeing, and long-term development.
The program will be available to all clubs in the Hampden FNL at both individual and club levels to support their own programs.
Shane Threlfall, president of the Hampden FNL said Chris would combine his footy knowledge to support players on-field, as well as taking his passion for wellbeing as another resource to support players.
“Footy and netball clubs are a great place to provide support to young men and women at an age where there are often a lot of challenges, and I know how passionate Chris is about supporting players in this space,” Threlfall said.
“The Hampden FNL believes this initiative represents an important step forward in supporting the overall wellbeing, resilience, and performance of its football and netball community.”
