Upper Ferntree Gully junior president Bob McLachlan spoke to EFL.org.au ahead of the 2018 season, all thanks to Yarra Valley Water & Choose Tap.
Overall, were you satisfied with what the club achieved, both on and off the field, in 2017?
We couldn’t be happier with how last season went. We had the most players ever involved in Upper footy. We added three girls teams to give us a strong pathway for young female footballers catering for under-10 to under-16 and now a seniors ladies team. We had seven teams compete in finals which was a great achievement. It was also fantastic to see three former Upper juniors debut in the AFL. Tim Smith (Melb) as a mature rookie. Josh Begley (Ess) pick 31 2016 draft and Daniel Nielson (Nth Melb) who started his footy with us. Off field we installed our electronic scoreboard at Dobson with a big thanks to Knox Council and we have improved the facilities at Kings Park 1 and 2 ovals.
Approximately how many teams do you think you will field in 2018?
At this stage we have 14 teams which will hopefully expand to 15 with the addition of under-18 girls.
What has the feeling been like around the club over the pre-season?
We have done a lot of preparation. Our coaches have already had a workshop and we’ve been working with our senior club on sharing facilities and celebrating the club’s 70th birthday this year. The older teams have started training and our ovals are looking 100%. Big thanks to our hard working and devoted committee and coaches.
If you had to pick one, which team do you think is the club’s best chance of winning a premiership this season?
There is no way we will single out a team for a flag. It just isn’t what we are about. Success for us is kids enjoying their football and developing their skills as individuals and teams. We take great pride in our teams rising through divisions each year and our players notching up 50, 100 and even 150 games with their mates.
Is there a particular age group of players that you need as soon as possible to fill a team ahead of Round 1?
We would love to see more girls in all age groups, under-18s, in particular. We have a few spots left in most age groups but would really welcome more players in under-12 and under-17 boys.
If any players are interested in playing for your club this season, what do they have to do? Please contact Michelle Victor (Girls Co-ordinator) 0408 318 985 Adrian Thomas (Secretary) 0428389864 or myself on 0424059975.
