Our Coaches
We don’t just provide training — we deliver real results. Join our community and take the first step toward your transformation.
Meet The Team
Neave Hancock-Wolf
Lead Coach
About Me: A graduate of the Nunawading Spectres junior program, Neave brings a deep passion for the game and a strong understanding of resilience to her coaching. After overcoming three ACL reconstructions throughout her playing career, she has developed a strong appreciation for physical adversity, mental toughness, and the discipline required to succeed in basketball.
Recognised early in her senior career as Youth League Defensive Player of the Year, Neave prides herself on bringing intensity, work ethic, and a team-first mentality to everything she does. Her love for the game drives her commitment to helping the next generation of athletes grow, sharing her knowledge, passion, and joy for basketball with every player she works with.
Achievements:
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VJBL 18's Girls Head Coach
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VYCW Player
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NBL1 Training Player
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Collegiate Careera - USA
Ben Corrigan
Lead Coach
About Me :
I have been involved in coaching basketball for the past five years, but basketball has been my passion for as long as I can remember. My drive comes from playing even a small role in helping players grow, not only into great basketball players but also into good people. I have coached at nearly every level that basketball has to offer, which has given me the knowledge and confidence to be a valuable part of each athlete’s journey
Acheivements:
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State Development / Future Development Coach - Basketball Victoria
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VJBL Under 14's Boys Head Coach
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VJBL Under 20's Boys Head/ Assistant Coach
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BigV Youth League 1 Assistant Coach
Jacob Lacchiana
Coach
About Me: Coaching for me is about helping athletes develop their skills and recognise their full potential on and off the court. I pride myself on fostering a challenging, improvement based environment where players can build a strong, reliable skill base and habits that allow them to succeed on the court. I have a strong passion for the details of the game and helping players understand how consistent effort and strong fundamentals translate to long term success
Achievements:
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VYCW Assistant Coach
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VJBL Under 14's Girls Head Coach
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VJBL Under 16's & 18's Boys Head Coach
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VJBL Under 14's Boys Assistant Coach
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Yarra Valley Grammar AGSV Coach
Mat Jelley
Coach
About Me:
A recognised leader within the Basketball Victoria pathway, Mathew is a State Development Coach known for producing disciplined, skilled and resilient athletes. His extensive VJBL representative experience across boys and girls programs demonstrates a consistent commitment to preparing players for state, youth league and senior opportunities. Mathew ensures players feel confident, yet challenged to help develop players to the best of their abilities.
Achievements:
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Basketball Victoria - State Development Coach
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VJBL 14s, 16s & 18s Boys Head Coach
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VJBL 16-1s Girls Head Coach
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Youth League Women Assistant Coach
Justin Holman
Coach
About Me:
I bring nearly 15 years of coaching experience across both domestic and representative basketball, primarily working with U12–U14 athletes. My coaching philosophy focuses on player development, confidence building, and strong decision-making on the court. I believe mistakes are an important part of learning and encourage players to challenge themselves and grow through the game.
I aim to create a positive team environment where effort, teamwork, and the right basketball decisions are recognised and celebrated. My goal is to help young athletes develop their skills, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for basketball.
Acheivements:
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VJBL Under 12's Head Coach
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BigV Mens Player
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BigV Youth League Player
Hardwood Culture Academy is built on a genuine passion for developing players both on and off the court. Led by coaches Neave Hancock-Wolfe & Ben Corrigan, the academy brings together a group of dedicated coaches who are deeply committed to helping every athlete reach their full potential. The coaching staff focuses on creating a positive, high-energy environment where players are encouraged to push themselves, build confidence, and develop a strong work ethic. Every session is designed with purpose, ensuring players are constantly learning, improving their skills, and growing their understanding of the game.
At the heart of Hardwood Culture Academy is a belief that great coaching goes beyond basketball. Ben, Neave and the team take pride in mentoring players, guiding them not only in their athletic development but also in their character and mindset. The coaches invest time in building relationships with their athletes, supporting them through challenges and celebrating their progress. With a shared commitment to development, accountability, and passion for the game, they are focused on creating a culture where players feel supported, challenged, and inspired to be their best every time they step on the court.
