Contributed Photo: Hudson Holmes signs on as Woodside & District Wildcats 2026 senior coach

Hudson Holmes is looking forward to returning to Country football after a year playing with Montmorency Football Club in the Northern Football League after being appointed senior coach at Woodside and District Football Netball Club for the 2026 season

At only 27, Hudson brings considerable football experience to his new role and an eagerness to mentor both seasoned veterans and emerging talent at Woodside.

Hudson started his football journey as a junior with College in Sale and even spent time as a boundary umpire during his youth.

His football skills were quickly recognised. He joined Maffra as U/16 player, won thirds league B&F in 2016 and the Maffra Seniors B&F in 2022.

In 2023 he returned to Sale Football Netball Club and enjoyed playing alongside his mates from school.

Holmes in action during his playing days with Sale FNC

In 2024 Hudson was named No 7 in the Gippsland Leagues top 50 footballers after averaging 32 possessions in his 17 games that season.

In 2025, Hudson signed on with Melbourne's Montmorency Football Netball Club. "I joined Montmorency to play alongside my brother Nash, but Nash unfortunately Nash became ill and so we didn't get to play any games together," Hudson shared.

Holmes celebrates kicking a goal during the 2025 season

Taking on the coaching role wasn't a decision Hudson made lightly, especially since he's a linesman by trade and needed to balance both commitments. "I had to see if it was really possible," he explained. "Coaching is a fresh challenge, but I've always wanted to return to country football, and this opportunity lets me do that. The club has secured two premierships, yet there's no pressure from my point of view—player management and enjoyment are my priorities."

Known as a hardworking 190cm centre line player, Hudson is keen to benefit from the expertise of three former coaches within the playing group: Ryan Foat (with whom Hudson played alongside at Maffra), Mick Stockdale, and Ben Johnson.

"Each of them adds something unique on the field, and I'll be soaking up their knowledge over the first few months," he said.

While his main goals are player retention and supporting young developing players, his brings a unique and refreshing approach to the way in which he goes about his football and he will apply that approach to coaching as well.

While he remains open to advice and learning, Hudson is determined to make up his own mind about players who show commitment and effort.

"Everyone starts on equal footing each season," he affirmed.

Preseason training will consist of three Wednesdays and one Friday ahead of Christmas, followed by a break until after Australia Day.

Training then resumes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings leading into the start of the 2026 season.