THE wolf pack are warming up for a bigger and better 2021 season.
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After a global pandemic hit, Workies Group 10 and first division were denied a 2020 competition. There was no chance the club could survive a shortened format with COVID-19 restrictions and a financial strain.
Fortunately its U18 wolves had the chance to play in 2020 and club president Anthony 'Bones' Brown said things were looking up for all grades heading into this year.
"At this stage the 2021 season is looking better compared to the 2020 season, however COVID-19 restrictions will still comply but hopefully we'll see an ease in these restrictions before the season starts," he said.
Bones said all Group 10 teams had committed to a 2021 stand alone season and a review of a combined Group 10 and 11 structure would take place in 2022.
This year's Group 10 squad will be made up of returning players, Bones said.
"With COVID not allowing for a proper 2020 season, some clubs will struggle to retain players but hopefully the majority of players will continue, I'm sure there will be a keen interest from players around the districts," he said.
With an already strong local talent base, Bones predicted that would continue into 2021.
"...especially with our young under 18s coming through and the added bonus of great players like Greg Alderson, Cody Godden, Harry Bender and Ryan Jarvis to mentor them," he said.
Wolves coaches for the 2021 season include the return of Graeme 'Ossie' Osbourne for premier league, Sam Rushworth for first division, Ben Lane and Jason Nunan for U18s and Charlie Healey for Opens league tag.
"Ossie with his great experience and knowledge of the game will set us up for a great season," Bones said.
Rushworth is a new comer to the coaching ranks but a well respected player according to Bones.
"He'll have plenty of support from our other coaching staff, players and committee - he will do a great job."
We are all eager to get back into action and have a successful 2021 season.
- Anthony 'Bones' Brown
Bones said Lane and Nunan resuming their coaching roles for U18s would benefit them for the season ahead, and Charlie Healey also a previous Wolves player, would lead the ladies squad to a hopeful stunning season.
"We are all eager to get back into action and have a successful 2021 season," he said.
Bones said he was also impressed with the Group 10 draw, with a good mix of home and away games.
"The draw looks really good for our club, our first home game being round one, will fall on ANZAC Day weekend," he said.
Players have started preparation with some pre season training that kicked off in December and will return in the first week of February.
"All current, previous and new players are welcome to come down and join our fantastic club," Bones said.
Bones also wanted to thank Corey and Tiff Willmott, Trent Sutherland, Nick Bender and Jimmy Reinhardt for their time with the Workies Wolves.
"They are all relocating for work out of the district, they have been great contributions to the Workies Wolves Club and we wish them all the best for their future endeavours and there will always be a place for them in the wolf pack," he said.
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