SOUTH Coast AFL club Shellharbour Suns are excited about the upcoming South Coast AFL season, with new players and a new initiative with the Housing Industry Association (HIA).
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The Suns have appointed Andy Wilton as head coach for a second term, with Chris Nyman to coach reserve grade and along with other new appointments, the Suns, who are now in their fifth season, are hopeful of bettering their competitive fifth placing in the 2014 season.
There is also a possibility that the South Coast AFL may also introduce five or six team semi-finals, which will further boost club on the fringe of semi-finals in past years, qualifying for finals football.
"Along with Andy and Chris, Troy Cole takes over as skills coach, Ray Orneleas will be fitness coach, team manager will be John DeSousa and Kellie Nyman will be head trainer," president Marcus Hollingsworth said.
"In another boost, last year's committee has been returned, and along with becoming accredited in AFL's Quality Club Program 'Bronze Accreditation', Clarke Holloway has been appointed as Operations Manager.
"There has been a lot of buzz on the field too, with local junior Mitch Bates returning to the area and has fitted in with his new club and will play a big part in Shellharbour's finals chances," Mr Hollingsworth said.
"We welcome not just the signing of Mitch, but numerous quality senior players from around the country.
"It's imperative that we have signed some experienced players to accommodate our new juniors who tasted senior footy in season 2014 to fit in, while we are were fortunate to have secured long term sponsor, Warilla Bowling Club, for another season, and we plan on leaving no stone unturned on the field."
The new initiative with the HIA, will involve junior Sun recruits potentially gaining employment in the building trade. The Suns are hoping to strengthen their junior base and believe the initiative with the HIA, which will make it easier for young players to plan their careers, and will encourage more young players to the club.
Mr Hollingsworth said.
"Sport plays an integral part of our lives, particularly your youth, and if we can help promote apprenticeships in the construction industry and AFL throughout the municipality then it's great for both groups and South Coast AFL in general," Mr Hollingsworth said.
Shellharbour Suns train on Monday and Thursday nights at Jock Brown Oval from 6pm.
In season 2015 the Suns will field both seniors and reserves and are hopeful to combine an Under-18 team to represent the southern suburbs of the Illawarra.
Anyone interested in joining and is 15-years-of-age to mature age can email Marcus Hollingsworth shellharbourcitysuns@yahoo.com.au
