Hoops Capital Appoints Renae Garlepp as Sydney Flames Head Coach

Hoops Capital has executed a leadership transition within its high-performance program, announcing Renae Garlepp as the new Head Coach of the Sydney Flames.

Garlepp, who has served as assistant coach since the commencement of the WNBL24 season, assumes the top role immediately following the resignation of veteran mentor Guy Molloy.

The move represents a calculated succession plan for the Sydney franchise, ensuring continuity while elevating one of the country’s most promising coaching talents to the helm.

Emphasising the organisation’s pride in promoting from within, CEO of Hoops Capital, Mark Thompson, said: “We’re extremely excited that Renae Garlepp is taking on the head coach position, continuing her strong work with the Flames this season.”

“She’s an incredible leader, lifting others up around her, and we’re proud to support Renae as she takes this next step in her coaching career,” Thompson said. 

The structural change sees Guy Molloy transition into a strategic advisory position, a move that retains his vast experience within the club’s intellectual property bank.

Acknowledging her mentorship, Garlepp, noted: “He has been one of the greatest influences on my coaching journey, and I will be forever grateful for our time together.”

Hoops Capital co-owner and special advisor Luc Longley also endorsed the appointment, citing Garlepp’s ability to bring “strength and energy” to the squad. Longley noted her impressive trajectory from elite player to coach across the NBL1, WNBL, and global stages.

Garlepp brings an impressive resume that aligns with the club’s high-performance ambitions.

Her credentials include serving as an assistant coach for the Opals, being named a two-time NBL1 Coach of the Year, and securing an NBL1 championship. Her international stock rose significantly at the 2025 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup in the Czech Republic, where she guided the Gems to a silver medal and was personally honoured as the ‘Best Coach’ of the tournament.

For Hoops Capital, securing Garlepp as Head Coach ensures the Flames retain elite tactical leadership while fostering a new era of energy and player development.

Garlepp’s tenure begins immediately, with her first game in charge scheduled for this Saturday, December 6, when the Flames travel to Townsville to face the Fire.

The match will be broadcast live on ESPN and 9Now, providing an immediate platform to showcase the team’s new direction.

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