Two-time flag mentor Ben Bingham announced the 2026 campaign was his last at the helm of the Road, ending his tenure on a high after Congupna’s eight-point win over Cobram in the grand final.
The club didn't need to look far for Bingham's successor, with senior assistant Josh Chapman stepping up to take charge in 2027 — returning to the top job seven years after previously co-coaching the side.
“Being at the club for so many years and with the group we’ve got, we've built some fairly strong bonds,” Chapman said.
“Being assistant the last couple of years under Ben Bingham has ignited the passion to take over and continue on his legacy.
“I’m very close with Ben, and we've formed a huge relationship over those years. We speak every day and Ben will remain involved as well in some capacity.”
Joining the club in 2018 after decorated stints with Myrtleford and Shepparton Swans, Chapman was a playing member of the Road’s 2024 senior premiership as well as club captain, MFL interleague skipper, and a member of Congupna’s reserve grade premiership this year.
Chapman said his immediate focus will centre on keeping together the all-conquering Congupna’s senior list, and with several returns from long-term injuries expected and the recent acquisition of Benalla’s David Mennen, there are no signs the Road will be slowing down under Chapman’s guidance.
“The main thing will be keeping this list together to go again,” he said.
“There's nothing better than being a part of a successful club, and we think that we've got the list there to go again.
“Make no mistake, that's what we'll be aiming for.
“We won't be adding much into our list at all.
“We had a lot of injuries this year; Tom McCluskey, Rylen Damianopoulos, Tate Mifka, and David Mennen will be all coming into that list.”
Elsewhere in the competition, Numurkah confirmed back in August that Jamason Daniels will lead the club into next season, supported by an assistant coaching panel comprising Zach McKeown, Ben Smyth, and Brad Dobson.
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