THE PERFECT BLEND
Tomorrow: Mitcham
“Choose Tap” Countdown | Doncaster
By Esmond Aponso
Doncaster achieved a good standard in reaching the Finals in the first year in Division 2 Ranks and they have taken away some important lessons on and off the field from the 2014 season.
When a club is promoted to a higher division it is not only a learning curve for the players and coaching staff, but there is also an ongoing period of adjustment and development for the entire club. From the President to the supporters and everyone in between, expectations are managed and many around the football club develop a greater passion for the grind of football rather than the passion for success. Senior coach Andrew Tranquilli is not sitting on his hands. From promotion in 2013, He is looking for Doncaster two ensure back-to-back finals appearances in Division 2, stating “The expectation is to finish Top Four.” The club has recruited Ex-Carlton (AFL) player Heath Scotland to bolster the Midfield and Defensive Areas and to assist with coaching responsibilities.
Tranquilli believes that the experience that Scotland brings to the football club will not only help the club through his presence but also further develop the young sharks, “He’s been a good mentor to younger players who want to play senior football, the first and second year guys who are looking to further their careers” He stated. The key is to ensure success for the Sharks is being able to consistently put a winning score on the board. The return of 2013 Premiership player Nathan Thompson will add a strong marking potency and better structure to the forward line. The experience of Scotland, Thompson and Ben Johnson who is already at the club, will provide greater on-field leadership to the team alongside other experienced AFL heads in Aaron Fiora and Ben Kinnear. Doncaster has never had an issue in the Ruck division, McKenzie and Jarvis are a formidable combination. Couple this with the emergence of young players to senior football in Sam Coats (Hard Defender), Josh Rock (Solid Midfielder) the Sharks will be pressing their name firmly as contenders in 2015. The return of Stephen Mutimer and Jesse Levalt from an Injury Interrupted 2014 season will add depth and overall strength to the club.
Expectations are high among the Sharks.
With the right blend of youth and experience Doncaster are certainly putting their hand up in 2015! First assignment will be April 11 when the Sharks take on Croydon away from home.