There is no doubting North Coffs' premiership success in recent times, and the side is looking to add to their long line of premierships in First and Reserve Grade and make their 10th consecutive appearance in the First Grade finals series.
The coaching personnel is the biggest chance the side has experienced over the off-season, with Danny McFadden replacing long-term coach, David Velt, this season. He will be joined by John Heather who will coach the Reserves side.
When asked why they should go well this season, club spokesman, Joseph Kane identified the change in coaching personnel as well as player recruitment should invigorate the side.
"North Coffs have recruited extremely well over the off season from across the East Coast, to add both experience and youthful enthusiasm to the playing list," he said. "The addition of fitness and technical coaching has given extra polish to the list which the club is looking forward to converting to on field success in 2008."
These new recruits have been said to add speed and toughness to the list, which will complement what North Coffs' well renowned ethos which includes hard running and a tough, head over the footy approach that has gained them respect from opposition players and coaches alike.
With strong numbers at training, the side is boasting a strong game plan that will involve a team approach and incorporate all positions on the paddock.
Their recruitment will need to cover the holes left by two club stalwarts who announced their retirement at the end of last season. Brad Giri, who dominated the competition in his farewell season by winning both the North Coast and Senior league Best & Fairest award, will be sorely missed for his leadership and his skills and ball-winning ability in the midfield, as well as Matthew Crispe who was an ever-reliable utility player who covered a number of positions throughout his career.
Young gun, Riordan Carr-Butler will also be a notable absentee, as he recently relocated to Queensland and will play in their AFL competition with Morningside FC.
Brod McDonald and Josh Drum are poised for big seasons and they need to if they are to cover the massive hole left by Giri. The duo were heavily affected by injury last season, so a strong pre-season on the training track and a disclipined approach to their football should see them among the league's premier midfielders this season.
The club has identified Sawtell and Port Macquarie as their main opposition for the fact they play the same brand of football and are always competitive, whether it be at home or away fixtures.
It seems a breath of fresh air has gone through the club and they seem ready after a couple of quiet years to make a full-thronged attack at the premiership. Even with an undermanned squad ravaged by injury, they made the preliminary final last year, so any improvement will make them a serious contender for the big prize this season.
Last Modified on 14/03/2008 14:18