East Burwood Junior Football Club president Libby Hadjiloukas spoke to EFL Media ahead of season 2018, all thanks to Yarra Valley Water and Choose Tap.
Overall, were you satisfied with what the club achieved, both on and off the field, in 2017?
Libby Hadjiloukas: The 2017 was hugely successful for the East Burwood Junior Football club with a 34% growth in player registrations including fielding a girls under-18 team.
This growth resulted in strong results across the board with three teams making finals and two teams making it through to grand finals.
An increase in numbers also resulted in a strong financial position enabling us to dedicate more funds to the growth and development of our players. The club also had record sponsorship levels ensuring the long term viability of development programs.
Approximately how many teams do you think you will field in 2018?
LH: East Burwood JFC will field teams in all age groups other than under-14s. This includes an under-8 team as well as two teams in both the under-9 and under-10 groups.
What has the feeling been like around the club over the pre-season?
LH: Pre-season is always a busy time of year with competing commitments for players and coaches.
East Burwood JFC has been lead for the complete transformation of the senior club who have breathed new life into East Burwood Football Club. This was witnessed by the hugely successful community event held last weekend with hundreds turning out to celebrate as one club.
If you had to pick one, which team do you think is the club’s best chance of winning a premiership this season?
LH: Our under-15 team were grand finalists last year and have again recruited well under the guidance of Michael Petrowski. They have a very supportive and helpful parents group who are keen to work with the coaching panel and club. They are a wonderful group who have been training for several week now. A team to be watched in 2018.
Is there a particular age group of players that you need as soon as possible to fill a team ahead of Round 1?
LH: Two groups need additional numbers to support their 2018 campaigns:
Our under-11 group are simply sensational with a brilliant coach and incredibly supportive family group. They have smaller numbers than other age groups at the club and would welcome additional families to join them. This is one team that you would want to be part of!
Despite ongoing success, our under-17 team requires additional players. School, work and TAC commitments will mean that this team needs more players in the 2018 season.
If any players are interested in playing for your club this season, what do they have to do?
LH: Please ring our president Libby Hadjiloukas directly – 0417 648 381 or via email at ebjfcsecretary@gmail.com
