The Holroyd-Parramatta Goannas are looking to build on last year’s finals appearance in Division One as they look to shoot down competition favourites Southern Power this year.
Goannas’ Vice President, Clive Sharp said there is a good vibe around the club.
"Player numbers have been excellent and there is competition for spots which is always a good sign," Sharp said.
"Despite a committed pre-season we were a little slow out of the blocks not really hitting our stride until Round 3, but ultimately we have all 4 sides in contention for the finals so we are pretty happy with our progress."
The club has had a clear focus when it comes to culture.
"We want our players to be better men than when they first came to our great club. The Goanna culture is one of mateship & mutual respect and we are one club rather than 4 individual teams. A strong culture inevitably leads to on-field success. Outside of that the senior members of the club have an obligation to the next generation be role models and support them in their transition to manhood," Sharp said.
The club is considering growing next year and adding a Women’s club to their roster.
"There is a quite a bit of interest in our membership base for a ladies team. We will be entering a Ladies side and perhaps a mixed team in the AFL 9s to get an indication of the level of commitment we can hope for. We want to make sure this is done properly and so next year may be premature, but if we have the numbers and the support structures in place you never know."
Sharp is optimistic about the club’s chances for the rest of the year and beyond.
"It would be great to have all four teams to make the finals with at least two making the grand final and hopefully a flag for Presentation Night," he said.
"Our medium term goal is to have our senior team playing Premier Division with our reserves in Division 1.
"The Goannas are now in our 35th year and stronger than ever with a professional and stable committee and good management structures throughout the club.
"Many retired players are returning to the fold as their children grow up and start playing Under 18s football, contributing to our on-field success and the Goanna culture.
"Our membership numbers have never been better and most of our major sponsors have been with us for many years.
"HTT Management has sponsored the Goannas since we started back in 1979 - there would not be many Sydney clubs who could boast that kind of support.
"As always it will be hard work, but we are a strong and proud club with a strong sense of our history. Destiny will take care of itself."
Last Modified on 25/07/2013 13:49
