Talking RDFNL 2021 - Western Rams Football
The Western Rams have changed their name in the off-season and with a new coach at the helm, there is a big expectation on the club in season 2021.
The Rams have recruited well under Marty Weaver and it is hoped they will be more competitive in this season.
Here is what Marty Weaver had to say:
Have you had any key signings for the upcoming season? Yes – We have added a number of exciting and key signings for season 2021 which has really provided us with an enormous amount of depth. Since the end of 2019 season, we have added approximately 25-30 new players to the list. Mitch Portoglou, Josh Casey, Tyler Nesbit, Stephen Hoare, Campbell Walshe, Peter Boyd, Tom McColl are just a few that will ensure that Western Rams are at the very least a competitive team moving forward. I will play my cards close to my chest for the time being with some other additions, but I am certain when the time is right, we will announce some additional key signings.
Who has left the club that will be difficult to replace? No one. We lost the likes of the Baumgartner brothers who were a significant part of the team in 2019, but everyone is replaceable. Such is Footy.
Have you coached in the league before and if so, what do you like about the RDFNL or if not, what has brought you to the league? Never coached in the league before, but was involved with Diggers Rest Football Club from my very first junior game and followed through to play seniors there for many years as well. Been around the league for probably 75% of my playing days.
How has covid19 changed your 2021 season plans? Not too sure at this point. We are waiting on council to approve us to commence our preseason training. We have secured 3 practice matches in the new year already and the momentum has just rolled on from the start of 2020. If anything, it has probably had a positive impact as more and more people are missing footy and are very eager to get stuck into training.
During 2020 did you have any involvement with players such as at home workouts or training programs? Initially we did, but after time, with all that was going on in the world, I think everyone was happy to focus on life rather than training. Those that wanted to, continued to train and keep fit, but I am very confident we will be fit and ready to go by round 1 2021.
How do you prepare for season 2021 following the year off? A lot of preparation has gone into 2021 with the coaching staff having already set the first 8 training sessions this side of Christmas. The committee has also been extremely supportive in procuring brand new much needed training equipment, like footballs, ruck bags, etc and continue to offer their full support behind the coaching staff.
Who are some players to watch from your team in 2021? Josh Casey talks a big game, so I’d keep an eye out for him, but Mitch Portoglou, Stephen Hoare, Luke Newton, Jamie Austin, Ash Gray and Peter Boyd will be worth checking out. Tom McColl as well as Mike and Will Gregson are excitement machines and will be players to watch. Campbell Walshe is also a solid inclusion and can still turn it on when he needs to .
What are you most looking forward to in 2021? The season kicking off for a start, but measuring where we have got. I am keen to see our club string some competitive footy together across the seniors and reserves. Do you think the league could start in February?
Have you started preseason yet if so, what are the plans between now and the new year? Not yet, we are hopeful to kick off on Monday 23rd November pending council approval. That is the only thing holding us back at the moment..