Waverley Blues Junior Football Club president Mark Frescher spoke to EFL Media ahead of the 2018 season, all thanks to Yarra Valley Water and Choose Tap.
Overall, were you satisfied with what the club achieved, both on and off the field, in 2017?
Mark Frescher: It was a very successful year for the Waverley Blues FC. Five out of seven (70%) competitive junior & youth teams playing finals was outstanding, three making grand finals with our club netting two premierships.
-These results occur for two reasons. Positive parent engagement with roles being filled along with general support and the club commitment to our academy charter – all point to a bright future for our club.
The club has been focusing on player and coaching development over the past four years via the McGain kicking academy. This program has provided multiple benefits which include, skill development, player leadership, and coach the coaches, in the format of theoretical and practical training nights hosted by current & ex AFL players & regional co-ordinators.
Approximately how many teams do you think you will field in 2018?
MF: 10 to 11 teams this year.
What has the feeling been like around the club over the pre-season?
MF: Pre-season has commenced early January for most of our youth teams, and registrations have been stronger earlier than is past seasons. Council ground allocations have been our major issue competing with more football teams, other codes affecting both senior and junior teams.
If you had to pick one, which team do you think is the club’s best chance of winning a premiership this season?
MF: Hard to say, it would be great if all competitive teams experience finals, but the focus is seeing all players develop and eventually playing senior football with the club.
Is there a particular age group of players that you need as soon as possible to fill a team ahead of Round 1?
MF: Still have vacancies for under-9, under-12, under-15 boys and under-14, under-18 girls.
If any players are interested in playing for your club this season, what do they have to do?
MF: Visit our website http://wbfc.com.au/player-registration
