MOVING OUR FOCUS TO ON-FIELD
There’s been a large turnover of players, which is not surprising when you consider three years ago the club was playing in Division Three. We wish all of these players, many of whom have gone to neighboring and much respected Donvale FC, all the best for the season and offer an open invitation for them to return to the club in a playing or social capacity.
Premiership player Aaron Fiora has retired, while Nathan Thompson has moved the family to Kyneton and is actively involved with the football club. Thanks for the memories boys!
Our senior coach Andrew Tranquilli and sidekick Heath Scotland are putting a senior list together, which is sure to be competitive this season.
They are still seeking a Development / Reserves coach to provide a level of field support for the season. Refer to the club website for contact detail.
A number of senior recruits have joined the club in 2016, including:
Sam Caruso – Pascoe Vale EDFL – small midfielder, who won the 2014 Best & Fairest & came 4th in 2015 at a club laden with ex=AFL talent. Originally from Wangaratta Rovers, Sam is renowned for his strong running ethic.
Michael Fogarty – Footscray VFL – strong bodied hard at it midfielder, played in the Footscray VFL premiership side in 2014. Was elected to the leadership group and was a vice-captain in 2015. Originally from Spotswood in the WRFL, Michael will be seen as a leader within the side.
Toby Ryan – Jindera – ex Balwyn utility, who will bring experience in the highest division, spent the majority of 2015 at Jindera. Also originally from Wangaratta Rovers, Toby has extensive experience in the strong Ovens & Murray League.
Sam Myors – Jindera – played for Vic Country in 2010 Under 18 Championships alongside the likes of Jeremy Cameron, Dyson Heppell, Adam Treloar and Luke Parker. A tall Wingman/Half Back Flankers Sam has spent time at North Albury and Spotswood.
Mitch Cosgrove – East Burwood – Utility who has been at East Burwood 5 seasons. Another that will bring 1st Division experience to the side as well as versatility.
Daniel Cooper – Coburg VFL – tall goal kicking midfielder who has extensive VFL experience, initially in the Development League and later in the senior side. Managed 23 senior VFL games in 2014 and 2015.Originally from Orange NSW.
James Saville – Kangaroo Flat – from the Calder Cannons football factory, James played in the 2007 TAC Cup premiership side. Another to have VFL experience James also spent a season in the WAFL with East Fremantle. A Centre Half back that can be used within the midfield, James has spent the last 2 seasons in the strong Bendigo League with Inter League selection being a highlight in both seasons.
Peter Stathopoulos – Oakleigh Chargers/Beverley Hills – played 12 games at the Oakleigh Chargers in 2015. Unlucky to miss the final series, Peter has played juniors in a very successful Beverley Hills side. A Key Position player that can play at either end, it will be exciting to see his transition into senior football.
Another batch of senior and U19 recruits will be announced on the website in coming weeks.
There has been a concentration on young footballers with experience at high local levels, and the football department has been more extensive than ever before in the search for the new breed of Shark. There is a strong undercurrent of young footballers being groomed to play successful Division 1 football. The on-field department looks forward to the challenge confronting it in 2016.
We have the strongest U19 pool of talent seen at the club for many years and look forward to developing the players during the season.
To keep informed on all matters Doncaster FC, refer to our award winning website.
www.doncasterfc.com.au
I look forward to seeing you at Shark Park.
Laddie
President
(M) 0400 290 725 |
