Article courtesy of Rod Thompson and Muswellbrook Chronicle
A COUPLE of familiar faces will again guide the Muswellbrook Cats in 2018 – but, this time, they’ll have a bit of help.
Brian Scott and Ken Garland have been appointed to mentor the men’s and women’s sides respectively in the Black Diamond AFL.
However, joining the coaching panel this season are assistants Steve Mullane (men’s) and Grant O’Leary (women’s).
“We’re long-time servants of the club – and love the place,” Garland said.
“Even though we bleed ‘blue and white’, we enjoy coaching the youth in this town, too.
“It’ll be good having Steve and Grant on board.”
The Cats will line-up against 13 teams in the Black Diamond Plate, including neighbouring Singleton Roosters and Maitland.
The women’s format takes in 16 sides, highlighting the popularity of the female competition.
“The girls have been training for the past three weeks,” Garland said.
“And, everyone’s keen.
“We’ve had up to 27 girls at a session, which is terrific.
“It’s a big year for them.
“Last season was a learning curve – and making it all about fun.
“In 2018, we need to hone in on their skills and improve on them.
“Fitness is also a big key [this year].
“We have to match it with the better sides – and be more competitive, let our rivals know they’ve played a game.
“Our realistic aim is to win a match.
“We’ve also secured eight or nine new girls, who boast a lot of potential.
“It all bodes well for the club.”
Garland said he was impressed with the men’s outfit, as well.
“They’re just having a kick of the footy [every Thursday night] at the moment,” he explained.
“But, Brian’s had 32 to 34 players in attendance.
“That’s a terrific sign.
“They’ve also picked up a few new guys and some young kids.
“So, things are looking pretty good.
“Muswellbrook is back where it started – in the Black Diamond Plate.
“I expect the boys will be more competitive this year, especially with the top four sides moving into the Black Diamond Cup.
“The goal for the Cats now is to field another men’s squad.”
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