Under new Coach Joel Cordwell Heathmont showed significant improvement in 2016, a host of big name recruits coupled with the development of their Under 21 players has left the club in a stable and competitive position moving forward.
2017 Leaders President – Rob Parker Senior Coach – Joel Cordwell Senior Captain – TBA What is the club’s ethos/focus in season 2017?
Development – of our junior and senior footballers, our new women’s and girl’s footballers, our netballers, our facilities, our finances, committee, members and our profile in the wider community.
What has the pre-season been like so far for the club, is there any group that have really impressed (younger players, veterans, new recruits etc.)
Really impressive, numbers have been excellent, we have recruited a mix of experienced and young players that will improve our list. The development of our Under 19’s and the group of players under 21 is exciting and will be the strength of our Club in future years.
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 stable committee with a few new additions. Looking forward to a full season on the new ground. Plans are progressing with the re development of the new clubrooms, construction should start at the end of the year and planning is underway to light our main ground. We will be fielding a Senior women’s team and 3 junior girls sides and 3 -4 netball sides, lots to look forward to at the Jets. If you could take one thing you learnt from the 2016 season to improve this year, what would it be?
On the Senior side it is to improve our depth, we want 30-35 players who can play senior football, and we will continue to develop our younger players introducing our under 21 group to senior football via a structured program.
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?
It will be our group of under 21’s who will be given the chance to play senior football and by the standards that they have set pre season they will be the ones to watch.
Where does the club see itself in 3 years time?
A Club who has some of the best facilities in the region, who provides an environment that develops and grows it players and members, is recognized in the community as a Club that not only is an outstanding sporting club but one that values and supports its players and members and other community groups.
Finally, who in your Division do you feel is the greatest threat to your chances of success in 2017 and why?
At this stage of the year, every Club is a threat, all Clubs are recruiting, all want to improve. After 3 or 4 rounds you will get an indication of where teams sit. Injuries or lack of them always play a part in how you go, looking forward to the year.