REDEMPTION IS SWEET
“Choose Tap” Countdown | Balwyn Football Club
By Esmond Aponso
The Bitter loss in the 2014 Division 1 “Choose Tap” Grand Final to Norwood still will be a constant reminder of “Unfinished Business” that Balwyn left behind in 2014…
Not so much the Tigers of old but in recent years Balwyn has been a powerhouse of the EFL.
Claiming back to back premierships in 2012/2013, Bayswater Oval is basically a second home. Last year the Tigers were forced to win 3 straight finals after only just sneaking into the top 5 at seasons end.
A miraculous feat they won their way into a Grand Final showdown with Norwood only to look somewhat spent within minutes of the first bounce.
The club boasts a list that continues to grow with a number of players bringing AFL or State League experience to Balwyn Park.
Gilchrist, Barker, Pendlebury would be automatic selections in any other Division 1 Club, along with a handful more.
They remain the crux of a side who still itches in September and a club that when the Channel 9 helicopter touches down expect to be on the ground.
The list also has six to eight Players who have played more than 60 Games, which demonstrates the experience in the line-up.
However, Balwyn needs more depth.
Performance from their 2nd Tier Players and established Under 19’s is crucial, these are the players of the future for the Tigers.
The establishment of the Under 19 side last season has led to a drive in developing their younger players to senior level in the coming seasons.
Senior Coach Daniel Donati expects the up and coming players to have more of an impact in 2015
Kenny Thomas, Shaun Macdonald and Sammy De Souza will be on the radar for Donati as they continue to develop into senior footballers.
Getting Rod Crowe back from an injury plagued 2014 is a big win for the club. Alongside that the host of recruits and genuine talent who will take the field in 2015.
A good run with Injuries will again see Balwyn as a tipsters favourite to be playing at the business end in season 2015