The Newcastle Falcons are pleased to announce the appointment of their NBL1 Head Coaches for the 2026 season, with Josh Morgan re-signing as Head Coach of the NBL1 Men’s program and Bernadette Schmidt stepping into the role of Head Coach for the NBL1 Women’s team.
Josh Morgan will return for his third season in charge of the Falcons men’s side. In 2025, the Falcons narrowly missed out on Finals but showed clear signs of progress, securing statement wins over the eventual NBL1 East Champions, Canberra, as well as preliminary finalists Illawarra and Sutherland throughout the regular season.
“I’m again grateful for the opportunity to coach our NBL1 Men’s team,” Morgan said.
“We’re hopeful of building on the improvement made from 2024 to 2025, to crack back into finals.”
“As always, we look forward to doing it all with our amazing supporters behind us.”
Bernadette Schmidt has been promoted to Head Coach of the women’s program, following two seasons as Assistant Coach. Throughout her involvement, the team made consecutive Finals appearances, including the NBL1 East Championship in 2024 and a strong run to the Preliminary Final in 2025.
Bernadette brings a wealth of experience, with over 30 years of coaching across junior club, association, and elite levels. Her deep understanding of the game and passion for player development have been shaped by her involvement at all levels within the Newcastle Basketball community.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have the support of BANL, the Board, and the Newcastle Basketball community in being entrusted with this opportunity,” Schmidt said.
“Having spent the past two years as an Assistant Coach, and following the departure of our outgoing coach, Kristy Bultitude, this feels like a natural and meaningful next step. I’d like to thank Kristy for her leadership and the strong foundation she’s helped build.”
“I’m excited to continue building on the success we’ve achieved in recent years strengthening local pathways for our juniors, connecting the NBL1 program more closely with our wider community, and, of course, striving for excellence on the court.”
“I’m especially energised by this team, the remarkable women I’ve had the privilege to work with over the past two years. They inspire me daily, not just as athletes and players, but as people. Their commitment, resilience, and character motivate me to be better and do better every day.”
Both Morgan and Schmidt bring more than just on-court leadership, they carry deep-rooted connections to the Newcastle Basketball community. Each has proudly represented Newcastle in their playing careers and continue to give back by coaching within the Falcons’ junior club programs.
“For me, this role is about more than just coaching, it’s about belonging to and nurturing something that is deeply special and close to my heart. Newcastle Basketball has been a second home to me for more years than I care to admit, and I’m committed to giving back to the community that has given me so much,” Schmidt added.
With a strong foundation in place and coaches who are deeply invested in the Association’s future, the Falcons’ NBL1 Men’s and Women’s programs are poised to take another leap forward in 2026.