CHELSEA GULLS ANNOUNCE NEW COACHING LEADERSHIP AS CLUB BUILDS A PATHWAY FOR THE FUTURE.
Chelsea Basketball Club has announced three key appointments to its coaching leadership. Ray Mitchell joins as Director of Coaching, Janine Davies returns to the club as Head Coach of the Senior Women’s program, and Kayla Welsh steps in as Head Coach of the Youth League Women’s team.
The appointments are part of a broader renewal at the Gulls, with the club focused on strengthening its junior-to-senior pathway, lifting the standard of coaching at every level, and continuing its commitment to girls’ and women’s participation in sport.
A clear pathway for every player
As Director of Coaching, Ray Mitchell will oversee player development across the club, from the Under 10s through VJBL and into Youth League and senior basketball.
“My vision as Director of Coaching is to create a clear development pathway for every player at the Chelsea Gulls, from our Under 10s through VJBL and into youth basketball and beyond,” said Mitchell.
“I want every player to have access to quality coaching, structured development, and the knowledge and support needed to reach their potential. Whether their goal is to represent the club at the highest level, pursue college basketball, or simply become the best player they can be, I want to help them understand what it takes to get there.”
Mitchell said the program would be built on honest communication, transparency and accountability, so that players and families feel informed and supported throughout their journey.
“On a personal level, I strive to be the coach I would have wanted when I was growing up in the game: someone who provides guidance, shares knowledge, sets high standards, and genuinely cares about their development.”
A homecoming for Janine Davies
Janine Davies is coming out of retirement to lead the Senior Women’s team. She brings a proven record at senior level, having coached the Western Port women to the 2025 Division 1 championship and promotion to the Championship division. The role also marks a return to the court where her basketball journey began.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be coming out of retirement to step into the head coaching role at Chelsea Basketball. Returning to my original home court where it all started feels incredibly right,” said Davies.
“I look forward to working closely with our players, coaches, and management. We aren’t just building a seniors team; we are building a whole-club family where every young girl wearing a Gulls jersey feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach her full potential right here at home.”
Kayla Welsh to lead Youth League Women
Kayla Welsh has been appointed Head Coach of the Youth League Women’s team, a key step in the club’s pathway between junior and senior basketball. Welsh has played Youth League since the age of 15, including the past five seasons with McKinnon Basketball, where her team won Division 1 in 2024.
“I am incredibly excited and honoured to step into the Head Coach role for the Youth League Women’s team at Chelsea Basketball,” said Welsh.
“Having played Youth League since the age of 15, I understand the importance of this stage in a player’s development. I’m extremely passionate about girls in sport and creating an environment where young women can develop their skills, build confidence, and grow both on and off the court.”
“I look forward to working alongside our players, coaches, and club community to build something special at Chelsea Basketball.”
2027 VJBL Parent and Player Information Session
Families will have the chance to hear more about the club’s new direction at our upcoming information session. To launch the 2027 season, we’re holding a mandatory session for all selected VJBL Chelsea Gulls players and their families.
When: Sunday 18 October, 9.30am–11.00am
Where: Patterson River Stadium
Every selected player must attend with at least one parent or guardian. Team announcements will be made on Saturday 17 October.
The session is an important opportunity for families to get clarity on the direction of the program heading into the new season. You’ll hear directly from the club’s leadership, including our new General Manager Kerryn Mitchell, Director of Coaching Ray Mitchell, and Vice President Anthea Quill.
On the morning, we’ll cover:
The vision and direction for the 2027 program
What to expect throughout the season
Standards and behavioural expectations for players and families
An open Q&A, so you can ask any questions you have
Meet your team
Following the main presentation, players will break into their individual teams to meet their coaches and set expectations for the season ahead. It’s a great chance for players and families to connect with their new teammates and start building the culture of their team from day one.
Coffee, BBQ food and Chelsea Gulls merchandise will be available to purchase on the morning.
Go Gulls!