

The Coach
Phil Howe
Phil Howe is a highly accomplished AFL coach with over 15 years of head coaching experience leading elite junior, youth, and representative programs. His professional journey is highlighted by four premierships as a Head Coach, including significant tenures at Montmorency Football Club (Northern Football League) from 2014 to 2020 and Banyule YJFL from 2006 to 2013. Phil's coaching philosophy is built on the foundation of 'effort over ability,' ensuring that every player, regardless of their skill level, feels valued and supported within the team structure.
Phil is particularly renowned for his inclusive, people-first approach, which prioritises enjoyment, mental wellbeing, and strong community connection. This philosophy makes him uniquely suited to the Masters environment, where the balance between competitive football and social camaraderie is paramount. An AFL Victoria Level 2 accredited coach, Phil has also served as a Talent ID Scout for the Northern Knights and has led multiple Division 1 representative teams in the NFNL and YJFL, including stints as the NFNL Interleague Div-1 Head Coach and YJFL Colts Div-1 Gold Head Coach. His dedication to the sport has earned him numerous accolades, including being a finalist for the AFL Vic State Youth Coach of the Year and winning the AFCA Northern Region Youth Coach of the Year award. Under Phil's leadership, the Over 35s squad continues to thrive as a competitive, connected, and welcoming gateway into the Diamond Valley Masters community, focusing on clear communication and simple, adaptable game plans that unite diverse groups into strong, connected teams.
Why Join the Over 35s?
Our Over 35s squad is where the journey into AFL Masters begins. It's the perfect balance of competitive football and the legendary Diamond Valley social culture. Whether you're fresh out of senior footy or returning after a break, the 35s offers a great standard of play with a focus on longevity, mens health, and mateship. It's about keeping the body moving and the mind sharp while being part of a premier sporting community.
Community
Building lifelong friendships through the game.
Health
Focusing on physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
Pride
Representing the Diamond Valley with honor.
2026 Season Fixtures
Round 1
Final

Diamond Valley 35s
68 (10.8)
VS

Rupertswood 35s
60 (9.6)
Diamond Valley 35s won by 8 points
Round 2
ANZAC DAY ROUND

Diamond Valley 35s
VS

Whittlesea 35s
Round 3
PAT CRONIN FOUNDATION ROUND

Brunswick 35s
VS

Diamond Valley 35s
Round 4

Diamond Valley 35s
VS

Laurimar 35s
Round 5

Northside Lions Men 35s (A)
VS

Diamond Valley 35s
Round 6
MEN'S HEALTH ROUND

Western Saints 35s
VS

Diamond Valley 35s
Round 7

Hillside 35s
VS

Diamond Valley 35s
Round 8

Diamond Valley 35s
VS

Wyndham 35s
Round 9
INCLUSIVITY ROUND

Newport 35s
VS

Diamond Valley 35s
Round 10

Diamond Valley 35s
VS

Brunswick 35s



Match Highlights
2026 Season
Season Highlights Coming Soon
We'll be uploading match highlights, post-game interviews, and top plays as the season progresses. Stay tuned!