Hockey Queensland is pleased to announce the return of both Brisbane Blaze Head Coaches for the 2026 Hockey One League season, with Angie Lambert OAM OLY reappointed as Head Coach of the Brisbane Blaze Women and Darren ‘Chook’ Fowler returning to lead the Brisbane Blaze Men.
An Olympic gold medallist and highly respected figure in Queensland hockey, Lambert will again take the reins of the women’s program as the Blaze look to make a strong return in 2026.
Lambert said she was excited by the opportunity ahead and motivated to help guide the side back into finals contention.
“I am really looking forward to the 2026 season of Hockey One and helping to guide the Brisbane Blaze women back to the finals,” Lambert said.
“I am confident we will bring a strong team which blends Hockeyroos and Jillaroos with homegrown Queensland talent. The chance to play in a home final series will be great motivation as we bounce back from a disappointing season in 2025.”
Amy Ryan joins the Women’s program as an Assistant Coach.
On the men’s side, Fowler will once again lead the Brisbane Blaze, bringing his experience and leadership into another important campaign for the Queensland side.
Fowler said the group was shaping up well ahead of the new season.
“The 2026 Brisbane Blaze squad is a great mix of emerging talent and experienced leaders,” Fowler said.
“Our focus is on continual improvement, playing an exciting brand of hockey and representing the whole of Queensland with passion and purpose. We can’t wait to get started.”
Hockey Queensland is also pleased to confirm that QAS High Performance Men’s Coach Matt Wells OAM will return as Men’s Assistant Coach.
With the coaching line-up now locked in, the Brisbane Blaze are building strongly towards another exciting Hockey One campaign, with both programs focused on delivering competitive performances and proudly representing Queensland on the national stage.
