Nickname: DK or The Prince
Year joined MUAFC: 2009
So, DK, welcome back to Mac Uni after a long 2009 campaign, has it settled in that you are 1 title from 1 season as MUAFC Head Coach?
It certainly has and I am quite conscious of the fact that we now need to put the great GF win and the celebrations of 2009 behind us and strive for another in Division 1 in 2010.
On the park, what was the highlight on Grand Final Day 2009?
There were 3 highlights that come to mind…
- Deano’s hanger
- Donnie’s text book shirt front on an unsuspecting UTS opponent
- The final siren to confirm our Grand Final Victory
As we attended the AFL Phelan Medal Awards last year, the boys were still celebrating their GF win, what was the highlight off the field in 2009?
The celebrations over 3 days after the Grand Final were definitely the highlight off field. Our Sunday sip at the ground followed by Mad Monday, were two of best days I have had in football.
Now we have been back on the track since November and are 3 months into our pre-season, and 8 weeks from first ball up, what is “fresh” in the air in 2010 with the playing group?
The most exciting part of the playing group is the addition of some young talented 19-22 year olds from a few other clubs. These guys are fit, fast and will complement our first grade side extremely well. We have had a few of our “older” experienced players hang up the boots after 2009 and these new players are just what we need after promotion to the faster paced football of Division 1.
Which 2009 player do you think will make the step up a grade in 2010 to your side?
Watch out for Sammy Lehman from last years Under 18’s. Good athlete who moves well and has been in Deano’s ear about trying to bulk up and put on some size. I think he will have a great year after a solid pre season.
What is the hardest part of pre-season?
Probably trying to learn all the names of new players coming to the club. The influx of new players during pre season has been amazing. Probably 25-30 with varying football experience and I am constantly getting them mixed up.
What comments do you have on the rest of your Division?
Essentially it’s going to be a battle for the 4 points every week. There will be no easy games and one slip up could cost you a spot in the finals. This playing group needs the challenge every week as they are so laid back and relaxed. The finals series showed last year that when this group is challenged they respond.
The usual suspects will be our toughest opposition with last years runaway premiers UTS at the top of the pile. East Coast Eagles have great depth along with Pennant Hills, Manly and North Shore on the back of a few recent Under 18 premierships.
If you had to describe your leadership style, what 3 words would you use?
Relaxed, communicative & focused
How should the Coach translate the Club’s culture and vision to their players?
Personally I think through actions. If you are promoting a social event, presentation night or footy trip which you expect the players to be at then you need to be there as well.
As we all know, Gen Y players are the most difficult to Coach, what special skills do you bring to communicate with them?
Let them be themselves for the vast majority of the time however ensuring they know when to concentrate and switch on. Everyone is different so you need to tailor your approach to each player.
Any superstitions around food and football? If so, what are they?
No players are allowed to touch my coaching board or move the magnets. And during the game I always hold thick whiteboard marker for match notes.
Favourite smoothie flavour?
Boost Juice Banana Buzz with extra honey
Name 5 essentials on your shopping list?
Bananas, Beer, Wine, Fresh Bread & lollies for Amy
Last Modified on 04/03/2010 14:22