SANFLW Pre-Season Update

By Chris Howie

Two weeks out from game one against Central District and the Women’s side is starting to fire.

Our internal trial at Norwood allowed the training and base game plan to be used for the first time in a match scenario. The exciting part was the first bounce saw a goal scored in 45 seconds with flawless execution.

The experience within the coaching panel of Brendan O’Donnell, Tim McMahon and Jane Fitzgerald allows me to assess our squad, with the confidence we are all heading in the same direction.

Captaincy positions were decided with Captain – Ali Ferrall and Vice-Captain – Sophie Armitstead announced. As a coach, this and squad selection are the hardest parts of the gig with excitement and disappointment in each announcement.

I must thank our previous captains Rebekka McMahon and Leah Cutting for what they have helped achieve over the last three years through the formation and success of the Lady Legs. Well done and a credit to both. Our leadership group of Ali, Sophie, Bek, Leah and Cassie Tsoumbris provide real strength to our squad through skill, continuity and experience.

Looking forward – our losses to the draft have created an opportunity for those within the training group to develop.

The coaching panel has faith in this happening and is rewarded with several underage players really shining through. There is maturity appearing within the senior group that allows us to take the game to the next level. I do not make promises or predictions, but I can say our change in-game style opens some exciting opportunities for our players and our club.

The Norwood Women will face Central District in Round One of the 2020 SANFL Statewide Super League Season on the 15th of February.