EAGLES TO LINK EXPERIENCE WITH YOUTH

Diamond Valley Senior Men have been hard at work in the Pre season putting together a blend of playing experience with some exciting young talent to usher in the 2015 Championship season. Continuing the trend of junior development, newly appointed Head Coach, Alan McAughtry felt there was a place for these players at the top level within the Diamond Valley program but it must be earned.

“With the departure of years of playing & coaching experience, I felt there needed to be opportunities for the players in our program if they were willing to work and accept roles while developing. It is one thing to play the kids but that would be disrespecting the league if the young players were not at the level so we looked for people with experience to help build this program for the future “.

First priority was to contact Brad (Bridgewater), known for his personality, size and his attitude towards the club. “ I was over the moon to have Brad back at Diamond Valley, I explained what we are trying to do, how important he is to the group and asked his thoughts, he jumped right in and began to mentor our group from the start “

Brad Bridgewater – “It is great to be back at Diamond Valley as it was always welcoming. Both the club & people there embraced me with open arms and I appreciate that. My role will be to make an impact on and off the court, try to help the team win but also do what I can to develop the young eagles that are the future of the club. “

Adding to the experience that Brad brings, Al was contacted by former Sandringham (SEABL) & Bulleen Championship player, Tim Brook. “Tim had moved to the area with his young family and it was a chance encounter reviving the player / coach relationship from many years prior when I coached his U/20 team at Waverley. Tim brings strength in the guard position, experience and a great work ethic for the young players to follow; he is a family man now and is great with our juniors at the club.

Tim Brook – “Firstly I want to thank Diamond Valley for making my family very welcome. I have been at a few clubs over my career and I can honestly say I have never been a part of an organization that based their teachings and beliefs around family like this club. I am excited to get started with the mix of experienced players and young energetic players; we will have some success on the court this year. Come down and support us, “

Coach Alan McAughtry - “With the promotion of James Penny, Mitchell White & Kai Woodfall (DV Yth), two new young players in Jesse Hockey (Frankston Yth) & Matthew McCarthy (Waverley Yth), we are setting this program up for the future.

This also gives great opportunity for the players from the past few years in Mitchell Lee, Sammy & Matty Reynolds and Sam Allen (Returning from injury) also Tyson Topou Finau- Hoffman returning from last year – Adding Braden Cotter to the coaching staff along with Brandon Arthur will be a huge benefit to the team & club.“

Completing their pre season practice games against Ringwood, Geelong (SEABL), Kilsyth (SEABL), Frankston (SEABL) & Hume City, the new look Eagles embark on their first home game against close rivals Eltham Wildcats on Saturday March 14th at the DVSFC. Adding some spice will be the first time both Al & Trevor Lee have faced off as head coaches and as well as facing former Diamond Valley MVP & Captain, Adam Moore.

With one more signing to come, the Eagles will look to make a run for finals in an ever increasingly tough competition.




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