MOYSTON/Willaura’s new coach Matt Burmeister has wasted no time in getting his side ready for the 2016 Mininera and District Football League season.
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The Pumas have been training since the beginning of November, and Burmeister is pleased with the way they have taken on the regime.
With 2015 coach Jacob Hamilton stepping down, four applicants applied for the Pumas’ senior role. Burmeister told The Ararat Advertiser he had no second thoughts about throwing his hat into the ring.
“I love the football club,” Burmeister said.
“When the position came up and I saw the ad, I had no doubt - I wanted that job.”
Burmeister’s involvement with Moyston/Willaura stems back to 2007 when he started playing with the club. He had three seasons as a Puma before taking a break. Burmeister returned and in 2014, was assistant coach of the under 12 team before taking the lead role of the juniors in 2015. He will retain that role in 2016, making for a busy year ahead.
The new coach’s main focus has been building on the fitness of the current playing list. It was a horror season for the Pumas, with many senior players missing matches through injuries.
“This year was hard to watch. I knew we had the talent, and that I could bring a fitness strategy and generate a plan that can keep us on the right track,” Burmeister said.
“A large number of boys have really brought into it. We had a meeting with the playing group just before (Melbourne) Cup weekend and said if you want to buy into it, the offer is there and it starts now. It's been great.”
Josh Bywater has been appointed Pumas’ captain and Luke Thomas is vice-captain. Burmeister was eager to appoint the pair as leaders and give the players a vision of what to expect in 2016.
The Pumas have not added any new names to the list at this stage with Burmeister’s initial focus set on the current playing group.
“I have 100 per cent belief in our list and that we can drive them and shape them to succeed. I’m a real believer in strength and building a numbers base, with our reserves and right down to our juniors,” he said.
However, the coach has not ruled out recruiting players to the Moyston/Willaura Football Netball Club.
“I really believe in the community aspect of the club. For people who read this article, I want them to know that we’re up and running now.
“We’ve got big plans and if you want to get on board, come down to training. We’ve got really great players and looking to achieve big things in 2016.”