Tess Madgen Embraces ‘Full-Circle’ Coaching Role

Tess Madgen says stepping into the Bendigo Braves’ head coaching role feels like a “full-circle moment” as she prepares to lead the club’s NBL1 South Women’s team for the next two seasons. (Tess Madgen Appointed Braves Head Coach)

After a glittering playing career that included a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, multiple FIBA podiums and WNBL championships, Madgen is ready to trade her jersey for the clipboard, and she admits it’s a surreal transition.

“It’s a pretty full circle moment,” Madgen told ABC’s Weekend Breakfast. “I’m really honoured to lead the team. The women’s side has such a strong legacy, nine championships in their history, so to be trusted to take the reins and lead them back to their glory is really an honour.”

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Madgen, who also earned WNBL Life Membership in 2024, said her coaching philosophy will be rooted in connection, culture and player empowerment, values she learned from her mentors at the elite level.

“I really hope to be what they call a players’ coach,” she said. “Sandy Brondello is the gold standard to me. She’s obviously got the technical side down pat, but more importantly, the people side. I want to be a great people manager, that’s what I’m most passionate about.”

As she prepares for her debut season on the sidelines, the 33-year-old knows the challenge of resisting her natural instincts as a floor general.

“It’s definitely going to feel weird at first not jumping out there, but having been a captain, I’ve often been the coach on the court. Now, it’s about recruiting great athletes and great people, culture first is massive for me.”

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Madgen also outlined her vision for the Braves’ program and its role in developing Bendigo’s next generation of talent.

“I have no doubt we’ll put together a group that’s a nice blend of Bendigo juniors and high-level talent,” she said.

“The NBL1 competition just goes from strength to strength every year, and I can’t wait to help local Bendigo girls and young WNBL stars, on their journey to achieve great things.”

Beyond on court success, Madgen hopes her appointment encourages more women to pursue coaching roles in Australian basketball.

“As a player, you can’t be what you can’t see,” she said.

“That’s a huge part of why I decided to do this, to encourage more women to stay involved in the sport and become coaches. The global boom around women’s basketball right now is incredible, and I want to help keep that momentum going.”

The NBL1 South 2026 season tips off on Friday 27th March 2026. For all the latest updates, including player signings, coaching appointments and league news, make sure you’re following NBL1 South on Facebook and Instagram.