Football
8 April, 2026
WFNL 2026 preview: Thunder ready to strike
Despite still finalising his exact role in the department of football at Southern Mallee Thunder, Jake Bridges will have an active presence within the men's senior side, both on the day of the game and around the group.
"I’m really looking forward to being hands-on and supporting both the coaches and players wherever I can add value," Bridges said.
Bridges is excited to be joining the Thunder this season, after being impressed by the club's energy.
"From the outside, the club has a great energy about it, and I was keen to be part of something that’s building in the right direction," he told Wimmera Mallee News.
"It feels like a group that’s hungry to compete and improve, which really aligns with how I like to be involved."
Bridges has spent a number of years working in high-performance environments, particularly around leadership, culture, and helping teams get the best out of themselves.
"A lot of my focus has been on creating clarity, accountability, and strong team connection, which I’m looking forward to bringing into a footy environment," he added.
Last season, the Thunder were the only real threat to ladder leaders and eventual premiers Ararat.
Despite Ararat claiming the premiership over the Thunder 13.13 91 to 5.8 38, that result was the other way earlier in round two of the finals series, when Southern Mallee won by seven points.
Bridges said, despite not being directly involved with the Thunder last season, it's clear there are areas the seniors can tighten up.
"Consistency across four quarters, stronger connection between lines, and making sure standards are held week in, week out," he explained.
"Those small things often make the biggest difference."
The Thunder has announced new recruits Archie Peltz, Bailey Edwards, Jai Kennealy, Matty Lloyd and Will Page, who will no doubt bolster their side from last season.
Peltz is from Berri Football Club, and Edwards and Kennealy hail from Springwood Australian Football Club, while Page joins the Thunder from Bellarine.
Lloyd made an appearance for the Thunder last season, alongside his brother Billy.
He's most recently played for the Sydney Swans VFL side and was recognised as the 2025 Development Player of the Year.
"There’s been some really positive movement with recruits as well, bringing in players who not only add skill but also strengthen the overall culture and competitiveness of the group," Bridges explained.
"That balance is always important."
As for goals this season, Bridges said it's all about building something sustainable.
"Playing a consistent brand of footy, developing strong habits, and putting ourselves in a position to compete with the best sides," he said.
"If we get those things right, the results will take care of themselves."
