After being relegated from Division 3 in 2025, Ashwood's senior men's team was a major success story in 2026, putting together a campaign that culminated in a preliminary final appearance.
Under senior coach Dale Carroll, the Magpies developed into a competitive Division 4 outfit. This was proven when they beat eventual grand finalist St John's OC in round 13.
After finishing 3rd and earning a double chance in the finals series, Ashwood were comprehensively beaten in the first qualifying final. However they would bounce back the following week by taking down Narre South comfortably to book their place in the preliminary final.
Reaching the preliminary final was a significant achievement for the group. Although the Magpies fell short of a grand final berth, they finished the season knowing they had established themselves as a team capable of competing deep into September.
Best win - Round 13 - Ashwood 12.11.83 def St Johns OC 10.11.71
Key players
James McGivern - 22.2 disposals, 10.6 contested possessions, 6.1 clearances
Luke Caton-Thomas - 19.9 disposals, 6.4 score involvements, 5.2 clearances
