By Oliver Lees
Local footy is back and Rupertswood Football Netball Club is raring to go.
Speaking before the first-round match against Airport West last week, coach Arron Bray said everyone at the club is stoked to be out on the park again.
“As a new coach, with new players, it’s very exciting,” he said.
“The club is upbeat and ready to get the season started.”
For the 2021 season, Rupertswood will play in the Essendon District Football League (EDFL) for the first time following the club’s five-year transition from the Riddell District Football League (RDFNL) under club president Brad Pietromonaco.
Bray will replace Nick Ash as coach of the senior side, who lead the side to a premiership in 2019.
Bray previously coached Broadford in the RDFL.
According to Bray, Brent Swallow has impressed in the club’s first two practice matches as well as a handful of younger players he hopes will give the side some youthful energy.
He said there will likely be an adjustment period as players get accustomed to playing in the new league.
“It’s going to be a big change for the players, we’ll be coming up against some bigger bodies,” he said.
“Some of our younger guys aren’t as developed, but we’re hoping we can get on top with our speed.”
With recent changes to the COVID-19 Public Events Framework, local clubs can eschew a formal public health approval process and welcome crowds of up to 5000 spectators.
Rupertswood led Airport West going into the final term, but ultimately lost the game after conceding four goals in the final term.
Airport West 8.17 65 defeated Rupertswood 7.8 50
