Perth RedStar's response to losing Callum Salmon? Bring back a championship-winning coach

Perth RedStar were just six points away from the NPL WA premiership in 2026. The man who delivered their first league title of the NPL era has returned to help close that gap.

Former Perth Glory A-League coach Kenny Lowe has been appointed RedStar's head coach and director of football following Callum Salmon's departure to rivals Olympic Kingsway.

Lowe arrives following an impressive 2026 campaign with Perth Azzurri, guiding the club to fourth in the NPL WA before reaching the Top Four Cup Final. His side defeated RedStar 3-1 and Olympic Kingsway 2-0 during their finals run, eventually falling 2-0 to Bayswater City in the decider. Azzurri had also thrashed RedStar 5-2 during the regular season, adding another intriguing dimension to Lowe's return.

But this is more than a reunion.

RedStar finished third in 2026, level on points with Olympic Kingsway and six behind eventual premiers Bayswater City. They were firmly among the competition's contenders, but fell short of the ultimate prize.

That makes Lowe's immediate challenge clear: turn a competitive RedStar outfit into champions again.

There is also the added intrigue of Salmon joining Olympic Kingsway, a direct rival who finished alongside RedStar on 41 points last season.

Lowe's appointment, however, extends beyond results on the pitch.

As director of football, the former A-League coach will also be responsible for strengthening RedStar's wider football structure and creating clearer pathways for talented young players to progress into the senior team.

It is a dual responsibility that combines the immediate demands of NPL WA football with the club's longer-term ambitions.

“I'm excited and privileged to return to Perth RedStar in this role,” Lowe said.

“This club has a strong identity, passionate people involved at all levels, and tremendous potential.

“My focus will be on building a competitive, progressive First Team while strengthening the entire football structure so that talented local young players have a clear pathway to the senior squad.”

Lowe's previous spell provides RedStar with an important connection to their championship-winning past, but the experienced coach knows the task ahead is about creating fresh success.

“I know what this club stands for - we won the NPL Men's title together in 2020 - and I'm looking forward to rolling up my sleeves, working with the players, staff, and the wider RedStar family to push the club forward again,” he said.