Pickering Brothers Join Black Rock for 2027

Black Rock Football Netball Club is delighted to announce Ray Pickering as our Senior Men’s Coach for 2027, with his brother Shannon joining him as Playing Assistant Coach.

The appointments bring valuable coaching experience, proven leadership and on-field quality to the Jets as preparations begin for the new season.

Ray Pickering appointed Senior Coach

Ray arrives at Black Rock with eight years of senior coaching experience across Thorpdale and Catani, along with previous experience as a playing assistant coach at Murrumbeena in the Southern Football Netball League.

His coaching background includes working alongside former Essendon player Jason Winderlich at Thorpdale and under former Sydney Swans great Steven Wright at Murrumbeena.

At Thorpdale, Ray helped guide the club through a challenging period and played an important role in its resurgence, including a turnaround from the wooden spoon to a preliminary final. More recently, his first season at Catani delivered more wins than the club’s previous three seasons combined.

Ray brings experience in developing players, building connections and helping clubs move forward. We look forward to seeing him work with our existing playing group and new recruits to build a strong foundation for 2027 and beyond.

We warmly welcome Ray, his partner Monika and their family, Jasper, Mia, Kruze and Eva, to the Black Rock community.

Shannon Pickering joins as Playing Assistant Coach

Joining Ray is his brother Shannon, an accomplished midfielder who brings an impressive playing record and leadership experience of his own.

The 30-year-old joins from Thorpdale Football Netball Club, where he played 182 senior games, won three Best & Fairest awards and served as Club Captain.

A midfielder who can also play across half-forward and half-back, Shannon combines strong ball use with the endurance to run all day. His versatility and experience will be valuable additions to our side, while his leadership will support Ray and the wider coaching group.

Already living locally to Black Rock, Shannon will have the opportunity to make his mark both on the field and in helping develop the players around him.

We are delighted to welcome Shannon, his partner DeLaina and their children, Milla and Margot, to the Jets family.

Looking ahead to 2027

With Ray leading our Senior Men’s program and Shannon contributing as both a player and coach, there is plenty to look forward to as we begin a new chapter at Black Rock.

Please join us in welcoming the Pickering brothers and their families to the club. We look forward to seeing our players, members and supporters get behind them as we build towards the 2027 season.

Welcome aboard, Ray and Shannon! ❤️🖤✈️