Connor McLean to coach Norwood’s U16 Boys

Connor McLean is back!

Just three weeks on from announcing his retirement from SANFL football, McLean missed Norwood so much that he’s returning to coach the U16 Boys side in 2026.

McLean was an outstanding candidate for the U16s role, given his longevity within the SANFL system, his profession as a school teacher and his intent on transitioning straight into a coaching career.

After 17 seasons in the SANFL (seniors and juniors) with Norwood and Central District, McLean finished with 79 League matches and 105 goals for the Redlegs and Bulldogs, including the 2022 SANFL Premiership and two NFC leading goal kicker trophies.

“I am excited and honoured to represent Norwood, now in a coaching capacity,” McLean said.

“Finishing up my playing career, I feel like I have a lot of knowledge to pass on to the next generation of Norwood footballers, things like what it means to be a Norwood person and playing for the jumper.

“I think my background in teaching (both in a primary and high school setting) will help. I understand that U16 age group, and hopefully I can help develop these players into good footballers and future Norwood seniors.”

Norwood Football Club Talent Manager Craig Roberts believed McLean would make a great coach at U16 level.

“We are super excited to have someone like Connor coach the U16s, walking straight out of a senior program and into a coaching role at junior level,” he said.

“It gives the players a first hand look at what training drills, structures, terminology and standards are like at senior SANFL level.

“Connor comes to us with a teaching background and is also a 2022 premiership player, so there is no one better to help the U16s learn about the club, and what it takes to be a Norwood player.”

The club also thanks 2025 U16 Coach Peter Turner for the time he’s given to the Norwood Football Club, in what was an improved 2025 season. He has decided to step away from the club to follow a coaching pathway in a women’s program elsewhere.