Season Preview – Yea

Coming off a disappointing season in 2019 where they only won one game, the Yea Football Netball Club heads into 2021 with a renewed focus for success.

A series of changes have swept through the club, with the biggest one being the appointment of new senior coach Paul Brown.

As the new season is about to take place, Brown was pleased with how his new side was tracking during pre-season training.

“We had some injuries to start off with, but that’s normal as players start to get back into it again, but otherwise I’m really pleased,” Brown said.

Brown has enjoyed an extensive background in football, having previously played at Melton before turning his attention to coaching at Officer and Sandown. He steps into the coaching role at Yea after taking a seven-year break from the game to raise his family.

Managing to retain many of its players to its list, the Tigers have recruited well over the off-season with the likes of Corbin Sutherland, Andrew Pillbrow, Mitch Skelly, Elliot Pyke, Harrison Jarvie, Nick Gilbee, Adrian McCarthy and Jack McMaster joining the side.

An additional recruit was made during the off-season, with Will Schwab signing on as the reserves coach.

His appointment has been invaluable for the club, with his aim for retention of players coming through the clubs second side a key aspect of his ability to connect well with people.

The Tigers enjoy a great community culture off the field which provides the groundwork for its goals in 2021, with making finals an obvious objective.

“We would like to think that we could be pushing for finals,” Brown said.

“But for us, it’s about building the foundation for years to come for sustained success.

“With the great environment and culture that’s already been built around the club, it’s hard to believe that the side only won one game in 2019.”

The Yea Football Netball Club will commence its assault on the 2021 season with its first match against Broadford at Harley Hammond Reserve, Broadford on Saturday 17 April.