Sport
21 January, 2026
New head coach unites club
INNISFAIL United Football teams are looking forward to the upcoming season, with training already in full swing.
Twenty-seven players hit their straps at the first training session on 15 January with participants vying to earn their place in the senior men’s team.
This included a good mix of youth players who fitted in well with the club’s established players.
New coach of the senior men’s team this season is John Cavanah, with Michael Corica and Michael Zecchinati as assistant coaches.
Mr Cavanah was an apprentice soccer player under England and Manchester United star, Nobby Stiles at Preston North End, and a marquee player for Newcastle in the National Soccer League in Australia.
After marrying a local girl, Lee-Ann Snow, he moved to Innisfail 32 years ago.
“Everything we do, we do with a ball. All training sessions must improve fitness technique and cohesion, while it is important the training environment for players is safe, friendly and challenging. The good work on the training field must be reflected in Saturday’s games if we are to do well this season,” he said.
“On a personal level, I like to know all the players and what makes them tick, so a bit of humour and encouragement from time to time helps with player motivation.”
This season, Max Darveniza is head coach of the under-18s team, while Leo Di Carlo will take on the head coaching role for the under-15/16 QPL team.
Damien Musumeci and Gino Di Carlo, who have 70-plus years of combined playing experience, will coach the ladies’ teams.
The ladies, along with the under-15, 16 and 17 teams, train on Tuesdays at 6.30pm at Castor Park, Mourilyan.
Training for under-18s and senior men’s teams take place on Thursdays at 6.30pm, with players requested to arrive by 6.15pm.
Innisfail United places a strong emphasis on player development, progression and preparing local youth for senior football. The club's under-15/16 and under-18 programs are designed to build technical ability, game understanding, physical readiness and the right football culture, ensuring players are ready to confidently transition into senior teams.
This year all grades will be wearing a new playing strip and Innisfail’s senior men’s team will compete in the Australia Cup in mid-February, before the season officially kicks off on 14 March, followed by the juniors on 21 March.
The club is always looking for new and returning players, referees, coaches and volunteers to become involved in the 2026 season.
For further information, updates and upcoming courses, please visit the Innisfail United Football Club Facebook page.