Competition newcomers Maroochydore made history in their debut season last year by becoming the first Sunshine Coast team to make state league finals. They now enter season 2021 with confidence after only falling five points short in an elimination-final against Sherwood.
Coach Andrew Cadzow said an arduous and intense fitness program had been paramount for the Maroochydore Roos.
“We’re still the new boys on the block” he said.
“Getting eight games under our belt last year was important for the club and allowed us to go into the preseason knowing the level we needed to be at.”
The addition of local rival Noosa Tigers into the QAFL competition will make for a thrilling Sunny Coast showdown when they meet in round four.
“The standard of football played by Noosa in the QFA over the last few years has been outstanding,” Said Cadzow.
“Having two QAFL teams on the Sunshine Coast is important for our community and we are looking forward to our ANZAC clash against them.”
Cadzow will be supported by Assistant Coaches Ben Jones, David Hulsman, Brent Pearson and Team Manager Darryl Richardson.
After an outstanding 2020 season which saw him runner up in the best and fairest in his first year at the club, Josh Govan is the newly appointed Captain.
“Josh will be a terrific leader; he has made his mark in just 12 months at the club,” said Cadzow.
“He is an exciting player and leads by example both off and on the field.”
Maroochydore have seen an influx of new players to the club this year. Newcomers include Sam Curtis, Sam McLachlan, Mitch Bowman, Tom Maclarn and Tom O’Leary all from the Hampden League in Warrnambool, Victoria, along with Kieran O’Driscoll (Heathmont) and Ash Brown (East Geelong).
Also joining the Roo’s this year is Ben Sloan from Redlands, Darren Tanti from Kedron and the return of Ben Kethro from Morningside.
“Recruiting for us started last year, our priority as a club was to build a strong list,” said Cadzow.
“We’re in a good spot, we currently have a squad of 65 players who have the depth and talent to play competitive senior football.
“It has also been important for us to get a couple of our boys healthy again after not playing during the 2020 season.”
Ahead of their round two clash against Wilston Grange, the Roo’s have hit the park in two practice matches against Caloundra and Sherwood.
“The practice matches were a good opportunity for us to get a clearer picture of where we are as a group.”
“As a group we bat pretty deep, to be in a situation where we play good enough footy to make finals would be our goal.”
Maroochydore in 2020
Played 9; Won 4, lost 4 (bye 1)
Points for: 515
Points against: 580 (percentage 88.79)
Finished: 5th
Best and fairest: Jacob Simpson
