By Jayden Adolph.
A rejuvenated and determined Oakleigh District look to go one better in their third year within the Eastern Football Netball League, alongside the launch of a new junior football program.
Senior Coach Blake Pearson says the club has now settled into the league and their expectations and goals within the EFNL are clear and understood by all within their four walls.
“I think as a club we are a lot more settled in terms of what to expect in EFNL. Our first year was clearly a tough initiation, and last year we were able to find our feet and establish ourselves in Division 3.”
“Again we have had an influx of around 10 new players, which brings with it a level of enthusiasm. Given the way we ended the season there is plenty of optimism amongst our players and supporters, and we just want to start playing games.”
Following on from a huge 2023 where they made a preliminary final, alongside a number of clubs they’ve had some changes personnel wise and Pearson outlined they’ve only shown a glimpse of what the club is capable of.
“I’m most looking forward to the continued development of our playing group. We have really only just scratched the surface of what our game style is, as well as the individual roles within that system, so I think there’s a lot of improvement to be had within the team.”
“Unfortunately we have lost Zak Bozanich, Andrew Webb and Byron Hoe who were all regular senior players last year. Zak in particular is a big loss given his dominance up forward, however we think we’ve recruited well to cover the loss of those players.”
Oakleigh have not only had player changes, they have a number of changes within their coaching ranks and their impact has been immense by all reports.
“Brad Taws is new to our club this year, but is no stranger to EFNL. He has coached his own side (Whitehorse), but has held numerous assistant coaching positions with Vermont, Blackburn, Balwyn and Wantirna South. He brings a really good understanding of the defensive side of the game, which has been great for the players in terms of their development.“
“Pete Maynard was around the club last year, but had to step away due to family reasons. He’s really good at developing positive relationships with the players, and will be a great sounding board for the forwards this year.”
Pearson is excited with a number of players who he believes are ready to take the next step forward in season 2024.
“I’m really keen to see new recruit Ethan Hunt in action.”
“He’s one that’s stood out in pre-season for his kicking skills and appetite for the contest.”
“I’m also keen to see how a couple of younger players in Connor Cochrane and Nathan Peddle go. I think they are both gaining an understanding of what it takes to be consistent senior footballers, and I think we will start to see some more consistency in the way they play their football.”
For the second-consecutive season, Oakleigh District will host Coldstream in the opening round of the season at Princes Highway Reserve, this Saturday at 2:20pm.
