In March’s edition of The Hunt Monthly, we wrap up a strong pre-season and practice match campaign as the group builds momentum heading into the 2026 EFNL season. We also look back on a fantastic Season Launch that brought the Sharks community together, while all eyes now turn to Round One against Kilsyth as the Sharks officially return to the field.
PRE SEASON AND PRACTICE MATCH RECAP
We kicked off our 2026 campaign with a practice match against NFNL club Laurimar. Bathed in sunshine, it was heart warming to see the hoops back out there on the field. We went into our first practice game reasonably inexperienced in the reserves, but a great opportunity for the boys to have a run together for the first time. We saw some terrific passages of play and scoreboard aside, we were able to quickly work out the areas needed for improvement. The senior squad ran out with just two players that had worn the Doncaster jumper previously. A totally new squad with so many new faces. We jumped out of the box with a goal in the first 10 seconds but Laurimar from there showed why they will be a premiership threat this year. Again, the scoreboard was not important, it was about being out there for the first time together and trying to implement a few key focuses.
In between our first and second practice games, we really got to work and looked to improve on some things that we saw from the Laurimar game. We also had our intra club game where we really started to see some promising signs around ball movement, stoppage work and how we want to defend the ground.
Our second practice game arrived against NFNL outfit Watsonia. In very different conditions to the first practice game, it looked like a typical winter day and rained for a lot of the reserves match. The reserves were ultra impressive in the conditions. They came away with a really good win and played some terrific hard and tough footy. Johnny was really happy and there is something to build on there going into round one. The seniors ran out with the sun starting to peep through the clouds. A tight tussle all day, we fell a goal short but came out of the game with many positives. Defensively really sound in the first half and some really exciting ball movement from the back half of the ground. Jake and Decca were all smiles post game and feel that the senior squad is really starting to implement our game style. We are so pumped to see everyone at home round one against Kilsyth in what is going to be a huge day for the club.
SEASON LAUNCH RECAP
Our Season Launch on Saturday night was a fantastic way to kick off the year, with a great turnout of players, supporters and sponsors setting the tone for what’s ahead. A highlight of the night was the presentation of our new playing guernseys, proudly sponsored by VICPROP – a huge thank you to Jin and his team for their support in getting our players ready for the season. We were also grateful to have Dave from Sporting Globe Doncaster and Gavin from Whitten’s Physiotherapy in attendance, whose ongoing support plays a vital role in our club. The night created a real buzz around the group, and with the season just around the corner, the excitement is building for what promises to be a big year ahead for the Sharks.
ROUND ONE vs Kilsyth
Round One is upon us, and Saturday April 11 shapes as a massive occasion for the Doncaster Sharks FC as we host Kilsyth FNC in our first game back from recess, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the club. After months of hard work and anticipation, the group is ready to run out in front of a home crowd. We are calling on everyone in the Sharks community to get down to Schramms Reserve, pack the boundary, bring the energy, and help us kick off the 2026 season in style – and we want to see our fans get creative by bringing posters, pom poms, signs, and even doof sticks to celebrate and welcome the return of the Doncaster Sharks FC.
SHARKS FAMILY DAY
Saturday April 11 also features our Sharks Family Day. The day is set to be a fantastic afternoon for the entire Sharks community, bringing together players, families, and supporters for a fun-filled day at Schramms Reserve. There will be plenty of activities for the kids including face painting and balloon animals, and even a jumping castle! The excitement of Round One against Kilsyth FNC will also be happening on the field making it the perfect chance to enjoy great footy, connect with the club, and celebrate the return of the Doncaster Sharks in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
There is a real sense of something special building around the club. The foundations have been set for a huge 2026. We cannot wait to see the Sharks family out in full force throughout the year
– The Hunt Monthly
MARCH 31, 2026
