Journal sports reporter and Warrandyte Venom women's coach Justin Nelson netted his second Coach of the Year award after leading his very young team into this year's division 1 finals series.

After winning the award with Ringwood in 2004, Nelson moved to the Venom, where he has led his team to the finals in three consecutive seasons.

"I'm thrilled to be sharing this award with the team," Nelson said.

"This is as much about them as it is me. They are an absolute pleasure to coach and this award caps off a very successful season for us.

"We made a conscious effort to promote a number of the club's rising juniors this season and it paid huge dividends with another finals series. I'm really looking forward to the group taking another step forward in 2010."

The Venom's dynamic point guard, Janelle Lucas, snared a berth in the all-star five, a result that Nelson says reflects the intensity and hard work she brings to the game week after week.

"Janelle is one of the best role models I know. She is just so committed to the team and club. This award really does sum up her season perfectly."

At the Ringwood Hawks, there were plenty of smiles among the men's team with Ken Harrington (coach), Luke McMillan and Sam Belt all picking up awards.

McMillan was the star of the night with the championship men's Most Valuable Player award and a gig in the all-star five, where he was joined by sharp-shooting import Belt.