TOBY Oliver might be young compared to his footy coaching peers around the country, but rest assured, the 23-year-old plans on making a stance in 2009.
Appointed coach of the Mount Isa Tigers AFL Club, Oliver understands he has a lot of work to do if he is to transform his side from runners-up to premiers this winter.
But Oliver has never been afraid of hard work, in fact he relishes it.
As captain of the side during the last two seasons, he has been the leader both on and off the field.
When it comes to training, he is the first to arrive and last to leave. He leads each session and drives the rest of the side to strive to his level.
On the park in matches, he puts his head over the ball, isn’t afraid of getting hurt and delivers more often than not.
Born and bred in South Australia, Oliver is referred to as a “croweater” by Victorian and West Australian footy fans.
But in Mount Isa, he is affectionately called “teabag”.
Oliver moved to the Isa when he was 17, after accepting an apprenticeship as a fitter with MCU.
This year will be his sixth season with the Tigers and it has been a happy partnership.
Although the Tigers have given Oliver a lot of happy memories, the 23-year-old has also given plenty back.
He was president of the club last year, and was vice-president for three years before that.
Knowing his side blew a perfect opportunity to win last year’s grand final against Rovers after being six goals up at half time, the new coach has two things in mind to turn the results around.
“Fitness and discipline,” Oliver said.
“If we can get our fitness levels higher than the opposition and be the most disciplined side in the competition, we’ll be very hard to beat.”
Although the Tigers have lost half a dozen key players from last season, Oliver said the club had already signed several new players to fill the void.
“We’ve had good numbers at training and that’s all you can ask for at this stage. I’m confident we’ll be thereabouts again this year.”
The Mount Isa Tigers train at the Irish Club’s Tony White Oval on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6pm. Anyone interested in playing is encouraged to attend.
