16 DAYS TO GO | South Belgrave junior president Shay Cosgrave spoke to EFL Media ahead of the 2019 season, all thanks to Yarra Valley Water & Choose Tap.
Overall, were you satisfied with what the club achieved, both on and off the field, in 2018?
Shay Cosgrave: 2018 was an extremely successful year for South Belgrave Junior Football Club. Our under-11 Boys won the premiership and our under-14 girls won another premiership (back to back) in Premier Division. All families, volunteers, coaches and officials demonstrated dedication, commitment and perseverance whilst having fun! We are looking forward to another exciting year in 2019.
Approximately how many teams do you think you will field in 2019?
SC: Five boys and five girls.
What has the feeling been like around the club over the pre-season?
SC: The vibe around our club this pre-season has been one of excitement, inclusiveness and community-focused. Pre-season sessions have been held at Lysterfield Lake, 1000 steps, swimming pools and various parks. This has made pre-season interesting and fun. This month we are hosting an outdoor cinema, movie under the stars, “The Greatest Showman”. A wonderful opportunity for our community to come together.
If you had to pick one, which team do you think is the club’s best chance of winning a premiership this season, and why?
SC: Our under-14s side won the premiership in 2018 as underdogs. This year despite several interleague players advancing to under-16 age group, our numbers have surged to include two under-14 teams. This has allowed for an impressive team to age compete in the Premier Division.
Is there a particular age group of players that you need as soon as possible to fill a team ahead of Round 1?
SC: Many players from one age group that were playing up last season now want to play in their correct age group which has left a hole in our under-11 boys team. We are therefore merging with Lysterfield JFC that we are excited about as we already have a strong and successful relationship through our combined girls program.
If any players are interested in playing for your club this season, what do they have to do?
SC: Contact Shay Cosgrave on 0488713200, I love to have a chat.
