ANDREW Bach has been appointed senior coach of Great Western for the 2015 Mininera and District Football League season.
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The former Stawell Warriors and Swifts premiership coach replaced Nick Thomas, who resigned at the completion of the 2014 season.
Lions secretary, Danny Hoare said it was regrettable Thomas had resigned, but thanked him for his effort in what were often difficult circumstances.
Mr Hoare said Bach comes to the Lions with a great deal of experience and the club was delighted to appoint him as senior coach.
Bach said he was looking forward to returning to coaching.
His last position was two years ago with the Warriors in season 2012.
In a long coaching career Bach has coached two premierships at Swifts, a premiership at Stawell and coached the Wimmera Football League under 18 team to three country championship wins.
He also coached the WFL senior team in the Victorian Country Championship on two occasions.
Bach said this season he had taken the opportunity to watch a number of the Lions' games and he said he saw a number of positives in the team.
"Obviously we need to retain the present playing list, need to recruit and the players must be fit," he said.
Bach said he had commenced speaking with the current players, while the club has also been in contact with prospective recruits.
"Realistically we need to recruit half a dozen required players and we will have a good side," he said.
Bach said one thing he would be doing would be to encourage all the players to commit to training.
"Apparently there was a lack of players at training this season and we need to improve on this by introducing a pre-season schedule that involves a variety of running and ball work.
"We will be looking to start pre-season on Wednesday, November 12."
Bach said he would also be setting up a coaching panel and runners to assist with game day duties.
Mr Hoare said the club had made all coaching appointments for season 2015.
Nathan Ringin has been named as reserves' coach, while netball coaches are Sharon Ralph (A grade), Erin Freeland (B grade) and Kate Ramsdell (C grade).
"In announcing the apportionment of our coaches so early, we are allowing our preparation for the 2015 season to commence immediately," Mr Hoare said.
"All of these coaches are bringing a fantastic range of skills to the club.
"We congratulate them all on their appointment and the club is looking forward to a successful 2015 season."