Hall of Famer Samantha Hamilton Returns to Lead Dragons Women’s Program

We are delighted to confirm the reappointment of Samantha Hamilton as Head Coach of the Women’s program for the upcoming season.

A true icon of the sport, Hamilton brings an unmatched wealth of experience to the role. On the international and national stage, she currently serves as Assistant Coach for the Team Australia Emeralds and Head Coach of the Victorian Women’s Team.

Her decorated career has been recognised with inductions into both the Baseball Australia and Baseball Victoria Halls of Fame, alongside Life Membership at both Baseball Victoria and Doncaster Baseball Club.

Hamilton’s influence at Deep Creek Reserve runs deep. An foundation member of the club’s inaugural women’s program in 2000, she first stepped into the head coaching role in 2006.

Over the nearly two decades since, she has helped steer the program through multiple eras, shaping it into one of the country’s most respected women’s baseball programs, renowned for its player pathway that consistently elevates athletes to state and national representation.

Her enduring impact at Doncaster is permanently honoured through the “Samantha Hamilton Award,” the annual Women’s Firsts MVP trophy named in her honour.

For Hamilton, returning to the dugout remains deeply personal, with a continued focus on long-term development.

“Doncaster is home, and it’s a privilege to continue contributing to this program,” Hamilton said. “What makes our club special is the pathway we’ve created, supporting players as they progress through our ranks, instilling high standards, and watching them grow into leaders at all levels of the game. I’m really looking forward to working with both our senior group and our rising junior talent to keep driving that momentum this season.”

Doncaster Baseball Club President Duffy Dowling expressed the Board’s pride in retaining one of the nation’s premier coaching figures.

“Having someone of Sam’s calibre lead our women’s program is a massive asset,” Dowling said. “Her credentials speak for themselves, but what truly sets Sam apart is her belief in our club’s environment and her commitment to developing players within our system. The number of state and national representatives that have emerged through the Dragons’ program over the years is a testament to that work. We are thrilled to have her at the helm as we build toward another exciting campaign.”