East Sunbury will continue to push the youth policy in the Essendon District Football League next season.
Coming off their best season in four years in the competition, the Thunder wants to continue development in division 2.
The Thunder finished sixth on the ladder, only knocked out of mathematical finals contention in the final round.
Thunder’s president Keith Osborne said several players who had tasted senior football this season would likely get more opportunities next year.
Both the under-19s and reserves played finals for the first time last season.
“We’re hoping the likes of Thomas Cree, Matthew Jackson, Jaxon and Corey Mobilio and Lachlan Brne will get more opportunities,” he said. “We were disappointed with the way things finished in [the under-19s].
“But we did roll the dice a little [by playing them in seniors] … we could have gone safe and kept playing them in the 19s. We think they will be pushing for senior selection week in and week out – it’ll make more competition for spots.”
Osborne said this year’s playing group was mostly intact, with the departure of Kamen Ogilvie the only big out. Ogilvie finished runner-up in the EDFL division 2 best and fairest award this year.
“His presence off field as well will be missed – he added a professionalism and did the little things,” Osborne said.
The club has now signed ruckman Jorden Braddy, who can also play forward and comes across from Rupertswood to provide some much needed height in the middle of the ground.
“It’s really positive to get a ruckman of his calibre … John McMahon has recommitted and most of the spine has as well. We’ve got stability on and off the field.”
Steve Grey will coach the side for a third season. Travis Bishop has been appointed reserves coach and Jason Spiteri will coach the under-19s.
The club is preparing for a big season, as it plays in some of the biggest division 2 matches next season.
The Thunder will open the season under lights against Burnside Heights, will play Roxburgh Park on ANZAC Day and will again play Jacana in the only match on the Queens Birthday weekend.
Meanwhile the club is looking at fielding under-15 and under-18 girls football teams. Details: anthony.blighty@gmail.com or 0419511721
