In a year which saw Doncaster play finals in Division 1, the Sharks look set to build on their 2016 progress this season.
A close elimination final loss to Noble Park saw its season come to a close, however a number of tight finishes against the EFL’s heavyweights in the top-flight sent a resounding message to the rest of Division 1.
2016: 12 wins, six losses, fifth.
2017 leaders:
President – Sean O’Gorman
Senior Coach – Andrew Tranquilli
Senior Captain – Chris Annakis & Matt Schimmelbusch
Doncaster vice-president Luke Curtis spoke to EFL.org.au ahead of Round 1…
What is the club’s ethos/focus in season 2017?
To be respected on & off field as a first club of choice to all players and supporters.
What has the pre-season been like so far for the club? Is there any group that has really impressed (younger players, veterans, new recruits, etc.)?
Consistent in effort with excitement from our younger players stepping up to challenge in Division 1.
Off the field has there been any changes to the structure of the club? And how are you situated heading into the 2017 season?
We have a new president in Sean O’Gorman and treasurer Wal Constable. We thank departing president Andrew Hallett who completely transformed the club on and off the field in his five year tenure but will thankfully continue his sponsorship portfolio and will be more involved in recruitment.
If you could take one thing you learnt from the 2016 season to improve this year, what would it be?
A better grip of the points system, though with full season under our belt this has been addressed.
Who are the players who you think will have a break-out season, who may have gone under the radar in the past as far the being known across the EFL community?
We look forward to our second and third tier players from 2016 to step up and claim regular senior games and drive healthy competitiveness.
Where does the club see itself in three years’ time?
An established Division 1 club – on field, off field both structurally & financially but also able to field teams with solid 19s for future growth.
Finally, who in your division do you feel is the greatest threat to your chances of success in 2017 and why?
The four teams that finished above us will be strong again – probably stronger, the Teams that finished immediately below us have recruited extremely well.
Meanwhile, the others were young but on the improve, so with another 12 months under their belt, we can see challenges coming from everywhere – could be a loose year in Division 1.
