Mulgrave will head into its 2017 campaign beaming with confidence off the back of eight promising wins for season 2016, including two in a row to end the year.
The Lions enjoyed a midyear run of momentum which saw them defeat the Waverley Blues, Mitcham, Croydon and Doncaster East from rounds eight to 11, breaking a six-week drought after the club’s Round 2 win over East Burwood.
On the recruiting front, Mulgrave has signed Callan Thornton from Division 1 powerhouse Balwyn. Thornton is a former Oakleigh Charger and VFL-listed player with Port Melbourne. He is also the son of former Fitzroy player and reserves coach, Ross Thornton.
The Lions will host Mooroolbark in its opening round clash on Saturday, 8th of April at Mulgrave Reserve.
2016: Eight wins, 10 losses, seventh.
2017 leaders:
President – Ron Gladman
Senior Coach – Peter Greenstreet
Mulgrave football director Scott Davidson spoke to EFL.org.au ahead of Round 1…
What is the club’s ethos/focus in season 2017?
‘Fight – family – character’ is the ethos of the club which supports our working class brand statement. Our primary objective is to have a winning season across all three grades.
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.)?
We have an outstanding group of under-19s both in volume and talent. This group under coach Tony Ellin will form the foundations of the club for the next 10 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?
The club has a strong committee of comprising experienced and new members, with the club entering the 2017 season with a stable financial position and solid sponsorship.
If you could take one thing you learnt from the 2016 season to improve this year, what would it be?
More depth is required across all three grades. Injury and slow recovery really effected the on-field consistency of performance in 2016.
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?
Without individualising, many of the younger players now have several years of senior experience and continue to show steady development of strength and skills. We can only wait and see who has a break-out season.
Where does the club see itself in three years’ time?
We have a strong culture and want to be a good place to play community football. We will continue to build on our youth and ensure through good coaching and enjoyable environment that we keep them in the club throughout their playing careers.
Finally, who in your division do you feel is the greatest threat to your chances of success in 2017 and why?
Division 2 has always proved to be and even competition, therefore all opposing clubs will provide a challenge to our 2017 success.
