Luke Webb replaces the outgoing John Tootell who will coach the Western Storm in the AFL Tasmania State League.
Webb will be joined by Devonport Magpies young gun Aaron McNab, who makes his way north from the premier Tasmanian competition.
Webb, runner-up in the Lions best-and-fairest this season, says he was surprised when first approached for the top job.
“I was a little taken aback to be honest,” he says.
“I certainly hadn’t planned for it but with me being here there’s continuity.
“‘Toots’ told us he got the [Storm] gig and that’s the dream isn’t it?
“He’s coaching footy full-time which is great.”
The Lions missed the finals this season but showed flashes of brilliance early in the year.
Webb says developing good habits in the pre-season will be important.
“Half of it starts off the field,” he says.
“You need a strong committee with a good number of people, along with strong supporters who come through the gate and everything starts to fall into line.
“For pre-season I think we’ll do a lot more running without the footies this year.
“If you haven’t got a [fitness] base you’re more susceptible to injuries.
“We spent a lot of time working on structure this year which a few boys weren’t used to.
“A lot of that will continue on.”
Recruiting has already started Webb says with another key forward high on the wish list.
“Our forward line was undersized this year,” Webb says.
“Obviously [Adam] Gross and [Charlie] Haley were awesome for us but there were times where you’d kick it in and our blokes got monstered by players coming in and punching over the top, so a tall target is important.”
Webb expects pre-season to start in November and says players should expect to put in the hard yards.
“It doesn’t guarantee you premierships but it means you give yourself a chance,” he says.
North Cairns Tigers, Port Douglas Crocs and South Cairns Cutters are all currently seeking to appoint a senior coach for next season.
Article Courtesy of Northern Beaches News http://www.northernbeachesnews.net/
Last Modified on 06/10/2015 11:18