10/09/2026
🦈 MEET THE COACHES FOR 2027🦈
John Karaglanis - Backs
John Karaglanis is a highly experienced coach with strong connections to Rupo and a proven record of developing young footballers. John is a two-time Rupo junior premiership coach and has coached across the Rupo junior, EDFL Pathways and Rupo Senior programs, playing an important role in the club’s most recent senior premiership as part of the coaching team.
In 2026, John coached the senior backline, forging strong relationships and building trust within a developing playing group. His understanding of the club, combined with his focus on player development, building strong relationships and team connection, makes him a valuable part of the coaching structure.
Daniel Gregory - Midfield
Daniel Gregory brings extensive playing and coaching experience across junior and senior football. A former Rupo player, Daniel was also a premiership-winning captain of the Sunbury Kangaroos and has played more than 200 games of high quality senior football.
Daniel has coached extensively through pathway football (including RDFNL interleague, EFC NGA and Talent League programs) in both male and female squads. Most recently, he coached the Gisborne Giants U17A side to a premiership, further highlighting his ability to develop young players and building successful teams.
Damian O’Connor - Strategy and Development
Damian O’Connor has a long and distinguished history in junior football, most notably as a long-time RDFNL U15A coach. Over many years, Damian has played an important role in the development of numerous players who have progressed through to AFL/VFL opportunities via the RDFNL pathway.
For the past four years, Damian has also coached within the EFC NGA pathway academy, further strengthening his experience in player development and high-performance environments. He also brings valuable senior coaching experience from his time with the Sunbury Kangaroos and Gisborne Giants.
