One was coaching in VPL1. The other was analysing in the NPL. Brisbane Roar wanted both

Brisbane Roar have turned to Victoria's state football system to strengthen Michael Valkanis' backroom staff ahead of the 2026-27 A-League Men season.

Former Bulleen Lions head coach Iacopo La Rocca has been appointed Valkanis’ senior assistant coach, while Avondale FC's Maxim Gaydovskiy joins as Brisbane’s new head of analysis.

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La Rocca arrives in Brisbane after a coaching journey that has included roles with Melbourne City's academy, Football Victoria, Preston Lions and, most recently, Bulleen Lions in VPL1.

The former midfielder was appointed by the second-tier club at the start of 2026.

As a player, La Rocca represented Western Sydney Wanderers, Adelaide United and Melbourne City, winning the AFC Champions League Elite with the Wanderers and premierships with both Western Sydney and Adelaide during a decorated A-League career.

The Roar have also added Gaydovskiy, whose analytical and coaching work has earned widespread respect throughout Victorian football.

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Before relocating to Australia, Gaydovskiy worked within the coaching structure of Russian giants Zenit. He later held positions at Preston Lions and Heidelberg United before stepping into a senior coaching role at Port Melbourne Sharks.

Most recently, the highly-rated Russian served as Head of Analysis at NPL VIC giants Avondale FC.

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Brisbane Roar Sporting Director James Gow said: “Such appointments reflect the standard and direction being set across the club, after an extensive review during the post season.

“We’ve brought together experienced, high-quality people who share our ambition and understand what it takes to develop players and win matches.

“Each addition strengthens our technical department and supports a clear, modern pathway for the best young talent in Queensland and across Australia.

“I’m confident this group, with a couple more final additions, will help us build a unified club identity and an exciting brand of football that our supporters and members can really resonate with.”